PREVIOUS YEARS' PHOTOS: The horses were off and running at Emerald Downs on Friday, July 22nd, as over 120 members and guests of the IBA joined together in an evening of food, fun, and "comparative equestrian analysis". Highlights of the evening included (aside from racing) a buffet dinner, prize drawings, and well-deserved award to a special recipient.
	The first order of business, naturally, was discussion and analysis of the merits of the various horses and their riders. As is apparent, a lot of heavy thinking and earnest discussion was put to this endeavor.  Fortunately, the IBA had its own tent and refreshment stand.  Thinking is thirsty work.
	Former President Melinda Skogerson's table looks like they all picked winners and are on their way to the line directly behind them.  IBA had its own private parimutuel window for betting and payoffs.   .
	The first special event of the evening was the presentation of a gift to Susan Kittleson, who resigned as Executive Director of IBA in March, 2005.  Presenting the award is Doug Davis, former President of IBA, who praised Susan for all her work "consistently above and beyond the call of duty".  The IBA wishes her luck in all her future endeavors outside the IBA.

	As if winning at the ponies weren't enough, Delna Vermillion also took away an iPod, donated by one of our sponsors, Ticor Title Company. In addition to defraying the costs for IBA members to attend this event, Ticor donated this iPod for the drawing won by Delma, owner of Towne or Country WA. Real Estate Inc.
	Our other major sponsor was Countrywide Home Loans, who donated this DVD, held by a smiling Desiree Richter of Old Republic Title and Escrow.  Our sponsors are a major reason we can host this event each year at such a great price to the membership.
In addition to the award ceremony and the drawings, the IBA members and guests were treated to a buffet dinner, prepared by the staff at Emerald Downs, and all included in the one price for the event. But over it all, the "General Plan" was to have a night out at the races, and a great night out it was.  The weather cooperated beautifully, raining slightly in the morning to clear the air and remove dust from the track, and then leaving just a few fleecy clouds to accent a picture perfect evening, complete with Mt. Rainier in the distance. And, as you can see from the official photo above, "General Plan" won the IBA Race at Emerald Downs.  General Plan, out of Maple Valley, was greeted in the winners circle by many of the officers and directors of the IBA. The Night At Emerald Downs was just one of several events planned this year by the officers and directors of the IBA for its membership.  For more information on future events, keep watching this website.  The IBA--Working to keep the Independent Broker... Independent.