May 3, 1986 at the YWCA in Gettysburg, PA the very first organizational meeting was held of the Northeast Texas Longhorn Association.

The purpose of the meeting was to initiate and organize a regional association to handle the needs and concerns of Texas Longhorn breeders residing in the Northeastern US, and also those breeders who were not affiliated with another regional association.

It was agreed that a board of directors comprised of nine members would be most appropriate. Stephen Kelty was asked to act as Chairman for the purpose of conducting nominations for the positions of Director. Nine names were placed in nomination and voted unanimously to become the first directors in the newly formed association.

The directors then elected the following as officers of the association:

For President: Bill Mummert

For Vice President: Don Neidigh

For Secretary/Treasure: Nina Kelty

Thus, NETLA was born and went on to become the first affiliate of the International Texas Longhorn Association.

Today NETLA is 105 members strong and growing.