Beads, Masks, Boas and Donations

The Student Party has always been one of the more fun events at the annual seminar. Those of us who crave dressing up, singing silly songs, and playing games can’t wait every year to find out what the theme will be. The themes have traveled Route 66 to remembering the 50s and 60s to cheering horse races. Sometimes the least expected AHP member is the one who appears wearing the most memorable attire. For example, who can forget Doug Hayes in a long-haired wig as James Taylor, or Jennifer Bryant’s husband, Michael, in a camouflage toga.

This year, the attire is as simple as a pair of beads to as elaborate as a masquerade costume, so every attendee should be decked out for Carnival du Cheval. If you won’t have time to purchase a mask or boa, then we’ve got you covered. AHP will have a Mardi Gras table in the Resource Center on Friday so you can purchase beads, masks or a boa. And you will be helping out the student program as all proceeds from sales will go to the Student Fund.

Okay, so what else do you need to do to participate in the Student Award Party? You need to donate an item for the Student Fund Silent Auction. And members can do that whether they plan to attend the seminar or not. The silent auction is a great equestrian shopping experience for those who attend, but it’s an even greater opportunity to promote your latest product or merchandise to the equine publishing community who may also be horse owners and your best customers.

And if I haven’t convinced you to run out to your stock shelves and pack up your goodies, let’s talk about the fact that the money raised from the silent auction and raffle supports a good cause…the future of the equine publishing industry. Anyone who has attended a past Student Award Night knows how many current staff members came through the AHP student programs to earn a position at an AHP member publication or business.

A pledge form for the Student Fund Silent Auction is available online at www.americanhorsepubs.org/programs/seminars/index.asp and includes shipping instructions to the hotel. Forms should be sent to Ellen Kiser, Student Auction Coordinator by e-mail to ekiser@bloodhorse.com or faxed to 859-276-6882 by Saturday, June 13th. You can also bring your item to us in New Orleans.

Now get out there and collect your beads and auction items. Let’s make the good times roll in the dough for students pursuing careers in equine publishing.