NCHA News

Dear NCHA family,

So here we are at week 3 and if you are like me, you’re about to go stir crazy. Going to the grocery store has become a production for many of us. I am rediscovering things that I have not eaten in years due to the fact that it’s the only thing on the shelves. Fortunately, I happen to like Spaghetti-O’s every once in a while, so I was happy when I was able to load my cart with the remaining 4 cans at the store Saturday morning. I have talked to my 84-year-old mother who lives in Dallas in one of the high-risk zip codes probably more in the past 3 weeks than I have in the past year. She informed me she is making masks for several people. She doesn’t really mind the “shelter in place” declaration coming from the city. She is in good health and independent. Gardening, quilting, reading and taking care of her dogs are her favorite pastimes now. For some, this pandemic has caused people to step back and take a look at what is important and also enact a self-reflection.

I have received feedback from many of you about how you are now able to spend more time with your families and loved ones. For some it has opened new lines of communication, others have been able to do things they have been putting off for a while. I know I’ve suggested before that we take this opportunity for self-improvement.  What that looks like is up to you. Maybe it’s working on things around the house or as previously suggested, working with your horses. There are limitless areas of things we can do during this “opportunity.” That is what this is. It is an unfortunate “opportunity” that we all have to deal with. Making the best of it is something I strive for and hope you will too.

Just to update you on a few things related to the NCHA:

Refunds for the Kit Kat Sugar Super Stakes are in process and will be hitting your mailboxes soon. We are also in discussion on how the Stallion/Foal program will be dealt with and should have a determination later this week. As of today, Convention, Western Nationals and the Metallic Cat Summer Cutting Spectacular are still moving forward. With that said, this is a day to day process and as soon as we have information to share, we will do so.

A few days ago, NCHA shared information regarding the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act is aimed at providing relief for individuals and businesses that have been negatively impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. Hopefully, anyone who might be experiencing hardship can utilize these resources. More info can be here.

The NCHA’s Foundation is also staying hard at work for you during this time and is excited to announce a new initiative rolling out from their home to yours. 

It is a critical part of the NCHA Foundation’s mission to educate and serve our youth in becoming the best they can be. To both expand and streamline our scholarship process, we've launched a new online application process for Foundation awarded scholarships. The Foundation has committed $50,000 to recipients selected by an independent committee in the areas of academic performance, essay, community leadership and financial need. More details can be found on our website - the deadline for applications is May 15th. 

The NCHA office continues to work remotely during the “Stay at home” order. Once this is lifted, we will be working to “fast-track” show approvals and re-instate the programs that run during our show year. I assure you we will be “full steam ahead” as soon as we have a green light.

To our members, sponsors and the rest of our family. Our President, Ron Pietrafeso, will be sharing some news regarding a special Easter service for NCHA members and friends. I wish all of you the best during this trying time. Utilize it to be safe, take care of yourselves and each other. 

Thank you and Happy Easter!

Jay Winborn

Executive Director