Paint Horse change makers—it’s time to make plans to attend the annual APHA Convention, taking place February 24–27, 2017, in Irving, Texas, at the DFW Westin Hotel.
Convention isn’t just for national directors—all APHA members are invited and encouraged to attend. Convention events include committee meetings to discuss rule change proposals, educational seminars and roundtable discussions and daily receptions. Members are encouraged to sit in on open committee meetings to offer their insights and opinions on potential rules.
The 2017 Convention also honors the past during a special Hall of Fame banquet February 26 at 6:30 p.m. Join APHA to celebrate the eight visionaries who comprise the 2016 Hall of Fame class.
“Convention is a vital piece of the heart that keeps APHA pumping,” APHA Executive Director Billy Smith said. “If you’ve never attended Convention before, I urge you to attend. Fresh faces, new ideas and passionate opinions from all facets of our membership is vital to the health of our association.
“Convention is also a place where our equine knowledge is strengthened and our passion for Paints revitalized. Join us this February—you won’t regret it.”
Download the tentative Convention schedule
Book your hotel and register for Convention here
AjPHA members are invited to attend the annual Youth Leadership Conference, held in conjunction with Convention.
This year’s “Paints by Numbers” conference will explore ways to increase numbers at APHA at grassroots levels, getting young horse lovers “hooked” on Paints and how to help our colorful horses stand out in the greater equine community.
In addition to constructive discussions and presentations, participants enjoy fun team-building exercises, games and a day trip. Youth also have the opportunity to join the Youth committee’s directors’ meeting, where they can provide personal insights and opinions on current issues affecting AjPHA members.
Tentative Schedule
Thursday, 2/23 – 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday, 2/24 – 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday, 2/25 – 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday, 2/26 – 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (day trip, location TBA)
*optional* Monday, 2/27 – Directors Meeting
Accommodations & Travel Arrangements
Participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements, including hotel reservations. Hotel rooms will be blocked by APHA at the DFW Westin Hotel in conjunction with the 2017 APHA Convention. Please visit apha.com/events/convention for more details.
Participants are encouraged to share hotel rooms with members of their regional club or youth groups. Director of Youth Activities Christine Henry will also maintain a list of those chaperones who are willing to share their room with other participants. Please see Section C of the registration form for details.
Chaperones
All youth must be accompanied by youth chaperone. Chaperones should oversee no more than eight youth. Chaperones who are planning on participating in YLC activities & meals are asked to pay $40 to offset the cost.
Recommended Ages for Conference is 13-18 years old.
Register for the Youth Leadership Conference today!
Still have questions about the Youth Leadership Conference? Contact Youth Director Christine Henry for additional information.