April 25, 2005



Dear AHA Members,

My promise to keep you informed is one I take very seriously. I am writing you today to let you know firsthand the facts of a matter that most businesses prefer to keep confidential. I do not think that is appropriate in this case, you are the stakeholders in this organization. I think it is important that you be presented the facts so that you can help me prevent rumors and enable you to base your opinions on the facts.

I would like to share with you the results of the lawsuit filed by Mark Himmel. Mr. Himmel filed a defamation suit against Mr. George Johnson as the Judges & Stewards Commissioner, and the Association. This lawsuit, filed by Mr. Himmel stemming from certain published statements concerning his dismissal as U.S. Nationals Judge in 2001, has been settled by the insurance companies in conjunction with AHA and its Judges & Stewards Commissioner. AHA's insurance companies will pay the settlement amount, and will also pay for the costs of litigation incurred by AHA (less the deductible).

While the settlement was agreed upon by the defendants in the case, it was based on the recommendation of AHA's insurers who felt acceptance of the settlement was the appropriate decision in the lawsuit and in the best interests of the Association.

This lawsuit has been a distraction and a troublesome situation for our association. The agreement reached is significant as it means that we can now concentrate on the task at hand of making our association and breed the very best that it can be and move forward. This settlement also represents the use of sound financial judgment as it eliminates the potential for more costs for AHA.

Under the terms of the settlement, the parties will mutually agree to a panel of four individuals who will conduct Mr. Himmel's evaluation for becoming an Accredited National and Regional Judge, in accordance with Resolution 5-90. It was agreed also that neither that panel nor the Judges & Stewards Selection Committee is to take into future consideration the events that occurred at the 2001 U.S. Nationals Show. The settlement does not require the Association or its Judges & Stewards Commissioner to do anything that is not in strict conformity with Resolution 5-90.

I hope this explanation clarifies any questions you may have regarding this particular lawsuit. We have one other litigation currently pending and that is the South American lawsuit. In the spirit of keeping you informed, I will update you on the progress of that other lawsuit in the near future.

Thank You and God Bless,