by Jean Baum
MILWAUKEE, Wis. - The Wisconsin Walking Horse Association is one of the first state associations to hold their awards banquets on Saturday, Nov. 9. Elections also took place as each year three of the nine board members finish out their term and three more are elected for a three-year term.
Carol Olp has been the Point Chairman for many years and again produced, along with Sue Clement, a delightful evening and beautiful trophies for all winners. Aliota’s Restaurant in Milwaukee was the setting with a big private room and a delicious dinner.
Kim von Asten, Will Kowalski and Jenny Kippley were inducted as the three new board members, round out the board already including Jan Spencer, Marianne Springer, Polly Wenham, Bob Rodenkirch, Sue Clement and Jean Baum. Spencer is the new president with Kowalski taking over as vice-president.
Following dinner and a business meeting, it was time to recognize the excited award winners, a group of very deserving owners and riders who put in a long year of hard work and support every show.
Five special perpetual traveling trophies are given each year. Jim Sizer earned the Charles and Alice Sears memorial Traveling Award; Wally Huebner earned the WWHA Club Appreciation Award; Kayla Kuenzi earned the June Mist Memorial Traveling Trophy which is awarded to the adult versatility exhibitor; and Bob Dillon’s Ebony Threat earned the WWHA High Point Horse of the Year Award.