Alvarado, TX (May 12, 2003) -- At just 34 inches, it will stand tall as a monument to the horses, farms and individuals who have helped to turn the American Miniature Horse into one of the most progressive breeds in the world.

It is the American Miniature Horse Association's new "Wall of Distinction" being built at the organization's headquarters outside Alvarado, Texas.

The wall, designed as a historic new entrance to AMHA headquarters, is constructed of commemorative bricks and will rise to the same height as the Miniatures themselves - not an inch more, or less.

Unveiling of the prestigious, new wall will take place the evening of June 6 during a special anniversary party hosted by AMHA. The event is part of a four-day, sterling silver celebration scheduled to include free educational sessions, association tours, presentations and meetings.

"Throughout this 25th year, we are celebrating the remarkable evolution of the Miniature Horse breed and the professional organization that serves it," said Duane McPherson, executive director of AMHA.

"The unveiling of our new 'Wall of Distinction' represents an important milestone for us," he said. "At the quarter century mark, it allows us to build on our history by remembering those who have contributed from the ground up."

But the wall has been designed as a symbol of the future, too, said McPherson.

"The foundation has been laid," he said, "and now we stand ready for the names of those who will write AMHA's future."

With an eye toward developing that future, AMHA's sterling silver celebration will begin on Thursday, June 5 with an Amateur/Youth Clinic to be held at Las Colinas Equestrian Center at Las Colinas, Texas. During the morning session, top trainers and instructors Patty Cloke of Washington and Lyn Yung of Texas will demonstrate the basics of Showmanship in Driving. This will be an audit
only, free class.

During the afternoon session, internationally-acclaimed judge and trainer Rod Cavinder of Oklahoma will teach a class in Halter, Obstacle and Showmanship. He'll share the finer points of showing, provide insight into what judges are looking for and offer tips on presenting a competitive package. Participants are invited to bring their horses for this session.

Also during AMHA's four-day sterling silver celebration, the organization will hold key committee meetings, and a board of director's meeting, at the Omni Dallas Hotel at Park West.

For a complete schedule of all activities, and for more information, please contact AMHA at (817) 783-5600, or log on to its web site at www.amha.com.

AMHA Members are requested to RSVP for celebration events by calling Jackie McGinnis, AMHA's Special Events Director, at (817) 783-5600, ext. 320; or by emailing her at EventDirector@amha.org. Hotel reservations can be made by calling the Omni Dallas Hotel at Park West direct at (972) 869-4300.

Those interested in reserving their place in history on AMHA's new "Wall of Distinction" can purchase commemorative bricks by contacting AMHA. Proceeds from the purchase of the bricks will benefit the organization's capital campaign. Funds will be used to support AMHA operations and special
programs.