For the first time the TWHBEA convention was held in conjunction with the WHTA convention at the Cool Springs Marriott. This appeared to be a huge success as many attended the Annual membership meeting. President Jerrold Pedigo opened the meeting with key points that would be talked about throughout the morning. A very energized group made for a wonderful meeting. The TWHBEA has a lot in store for next season. Growth and a new fresh look are the main focus of the future of TWHBEA.

Membership growth is a large focus of the TWHBEA. With a new look the group has been doing countless hours of research to improve and maintain growth. A membership renewal program has been in process for sometime. They have looked at the gap in membership of young adults. They have plans to offer a young adult price to help the typical college student. They will offer this price to 18 year old students for four consecutive years.

From January to October the memberships have grown by 500 . A new web site will also be introduced in early January 2005. Daily updates will now be available.

The Voice Magazine shares a lot of credit for the increase in traffic and members. The Voice successfully distributed a first ever August addition that appeared during The Celebration. The Voice also announced that in February they will publish a Stallion Summary. The Summary will be sent out with the regular issue of the The Voice.

The first horse show put on by the TWHBEA was held May 20-22. The location was in St. Louis, Missouri. After such a positive response the horse show committee is already planning another one. Plans are for the horse show to be in the Spring, but a date has not yet been announced.

The TWHBEA distance program is pleased to announce that Tucker Saddlery will be a sponsor in 2005. Tucker Saddles are designed for comfort in the saddle for those long hours involved in distance riding.

After a recent concern TWHBEA is looking into redoing their ballots for the 2006 term. Many were concerned by the look of the ballot that appeared in the envelope. Being such an important topic TWHBEA wants to make sure that their is no question to the appearance of the ballot.

The attendees and the staff of TWHBEA received a treat during the end of the meeting. Dr. Steve Adair came from the University Of Tennessee Large Animal program. Dr. Adair was their to inform and update us in the recent developments in large animal rehabilitation and medicine. He gave a very informed session on new equipment for our breed to enhance and speed up the healing process.

Officers for 2005 are Jerrold Pedigo, President; Melvin Belcher, Senior Vise President; Charles Hulsey, Executive Director;and Sharon Brandon, Secretary-Treasurer.The Committee is Administrative/Fiscal/Audit , Charles Warton; Breeders, Bill Stricklend; Enforcement, Jack Doss; Horse Show, Jamie Hankins; Marketing , Larry Lowman; Owner/Exhibitors, Mrs. Nicole Carswell; Performance Show Horse,Spencer Benidict; Pleasure Horse, Mrs. Ann Kuykendall; Training, David Landrum; Member at Large-Bylaws, Sidney G. Baucom; Member at Large-Youth, Mrs.Paula Andrews.