At the 2010 APHA Convention, APHA members were challenged to innovate. By Jessica Hein In her opening remarks at the 2010 APHA Convention, 2009-2010 President Linda Vance challenged members and directors to discuss the future of the American Paint Horse Association with an open mind in an effort to generate creative discussion and positive ideas for its future.

"We really need to think outside of the box," Vance said. "We want to do all of the right things to make sure that when the economy comes back, we're ready to take advantage of it."

 Approximately 200 APHA members attended the APHA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee - 2010 marked the 40th year for the annual event. Thirty U.S. states were represented, and members from Canada, Denmark and Australia also attended. In the shadow of the nearby Grand Ole Opry, attendees quickly lived up to Vance's challenge as they discussed current rule change proposals, shared ideas to increase the association's viability and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow Paint promoters in Music City.