SHELBYVILLE, TENN. -- The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) Board of Directors met today to discuss changes for the 2007 show season. The board considered several recommendations and is confident that the approved changes will improve oversight and help the NHSC more effectively serve its affiliated shows and the entire Walking Horse industry.

The changes approved by the NHSC are:

• A Veterinary Advisory Board to review the HIO program and actions of the NHSC. Hiring a full-time DQP Coordinator and a Director of Judges. Interim appointments will be made immediately while other applicants are being considered. A Screening Committee of five individuals will screen and interview applicants for both positions and will bring their recommendations to the NHSC Board for final approval.

• Expand and improve the Steward Program that was instituted in 2006. Stewards are charged with monitoring the entire show grounds and will be present at the Kentucky After Christmas Sale and shows throughout the year.

• Establish a Veterinary Advisory Board to review the HIO program and actions of the NHSC.

• Establish a Show Management Advisory Board to assist and communicate the thoughts and ideas of show managers back to the NHSC.

• Create an Oversight Committee of seven highly esteemed individuals from various industry organizations. The committee will include a veterinarian, an attorney, and a representative from a different breed. This committee will review the current management practices and programs of the NHSC and consider any new issues or programs, and then make appropriate recommendations to the NHSC Board of Directors.

The complete details of these changes will be forthcoming as they are finalized.