At the July meeting we had a wonderful video presentation on the Kentucky driving event and finalized things for the show.
It was a warm sunny day that Q welcomed his equine friends to the farm.
Two mares and four geldings showed up for the trai ride.
Off we rode into the woods where it was much cooler and surprizingly unbuggy.
Before and after the ride the horses enjoyed their grassy paddocks with shade trees.
While the riders gathered under the apple tree for lunch and conversation.
We had a lovely day so we did it twice more and will make plans to do it again.
The EBC presentation was very informative and inspiring!
We thank them for their time and hopefully some of us will be able to give them some in return.
The annual Christmas party was held at Cooperative Extension on Sunday December 17.
We all enjoyed the fantastic table decorations and cozy candlelight atmosphere created by Deb Tompkins.
There was a variety of great food, as usual much more than we needed. We owe a huge vote of thanks to Deb for her preparation and catering of the main menu. Everything was wonderful and fully enjoyed by all.
We had a lot of fun with the Chinese auction. Everyone took home at least one, if not several items and the event even made a little extra money to add to the treasury.
Thank you Deb for all your time and effort to make this a really enjoyable get together for all of us we really appreciate it.
Marilyn Miles
Fifteen members arrived for the meeting in Nov.
Corey Hedderman spoke for an hour on hoof care, bringing up interesting points and answering questions. Remember we keep a list link from the 'horsing around' page.
After much discussion and voting the results are in… this years Christmas party will be on December 17th from 1 to 4 at the Voorheesville Co-op building.
Due to the club's lack of funds this year, each participant will pay $10 to defray costs and bring either an appetizer or dessert. Children may come at no charge.
The club will supply coffee and tea and everyone is to bring whatever else they wish to drink. The menu will include salad, cheese and crackers, fruit and pasta dishes. To reserve contact Sue Sutch by Dec 10th.
There will be NO gift exchange. Members are to bring an item to donate for a silent bid drawing to boost the clubs finances. There will also be a 50/50 drawing. Be sure to bring some small bills with you.
Deb will be in charge of decorating again and anyone wishing to help should contact her about coming early.
October 1st it poured for this years picnic ride to be held at Bob's Trees. The rain date is Oct 15 Everyone is to bring their own meat and drink along with a dish to pass. Contact Sue Sutch to list your 'dish'.
We will be doing our own food prep for this years Christmas Party. Details to be worked out at the next meeting.
Some members are behind in their dues, please correct this ASAP.
The clinic went well with five members bringing their horses. A big thank you to Kat for all her helpful advice.
The monthly meeting was held during lunch.
September 30th with a rain date of October 1st has been chosen for this years picnic ride. Be sure to answer the questionnaire sent to all members. Sue Sutch is looking into our holding it at Bob’s Trees again. Alternate location is Locust Knoll Farm.
Bring bits (and/or bridles) to the September meeting for a discussion.
We will be doing our own food prep for this years Christmas Party. Details to be worked out at another meeting.
Some members are behind in their dues, please correct this ASAP.
HOT, HOT, HOT, the weatherman threatened and people believed him and stayed home. Course he was mostly right... Only about 50 horses turned out for this years show.
August meeting has been moved to the weekend of the 5 weather permitting (6th rain date) at Marilyn's house, bring your own lunch and drinks.
The meeting will be held during the lunch break. The day will be devoted to a ground work clinic with Kat Caprio. Participants will each have their own time slot,
and everyone(any member) can watch the other sessions. If you need a time slot contact Deb.
For information on this years horse show click the 'show' button on the left.
Only 2 members braved the threat of rain and had a wonderful three hour ride at Partridge Run.
The July meeting was well attended and we went over proceedure and questions for the horse show. Everyone has their assignments and a crew will meet at the fairgrounds the day before to set up.
July 16 is the Horse Show and members are reminded to maintain 'active' status you must work the show and/or the day before for set-up.
So be sure to contact Nicole Vanderpool to get your job assignment. Non-active members are not
entitled to participate in any of the club activities/events without paying.
There was an excellent turnout for the June 6 Meeting at Diana's house with early start time of 7 pm. Mike Grden an equine massage therapist and experiential learning facilitator was the guest speaker.
Mike started with massage then moved on to Epona, a meeting of mind, soul and spirit between horse and human. Anyone who hasn't read "The Tao of Equis" is greatly encouraged to do so.
More info on to come.
A trail ride at Partridge Run has been set for June 25th. The ride will head out at 11 am from the parking area off Route 6, Bring your own lunch.
DIRECTIONS: From Route 85, before village of Rensselaerville, turn onto County Route 6, (road immediately bears left), follow Route 6, at bottom of steep downhill, there will be White Birch Road on the left
and very shortly beyond that there will be Partridge Run Road on the right, the meadow is on the right immediately after you turn onto Partridge Run Road. There is also now, a shale bank area across Route 6 from the end of Partridge Run Road that has room for several trailers as well.
mapquest if you need it
July 5 Meeting - rescheduled to this date – NOTE CHANGE !!!!
The Long lining program started shortly after 7 pm at Diana's house and used Java as an 'unstarted' example and Jetta(who had 1 previous lesson)
allowed members to practice on him after the demo. The business meeting followed with the following results.
POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN May 21st, 11 a.m.– Ride at Bob’s Trees - POSTPONED TOO SOGGY
June 3/4 - Drill Team at Marilyn Miles home. CHECK WITH MARILYN ABOUT DATE AND TIME OR CANCELLATION
April 22 (April 23 rain date) -and boy did it ever.... so the Long lining Clinic has been moved to the May meeting and turned into a demo.
Long lining is another tool for improving control and communication between horse and handler.
As we all know the more you do with your horse, the more you can do and the safer and more of a pleasure he becomes.
April saw a productive meeting with many dates set for future events (see list below). Dues were collected and those not at the meeting need to remember to get that taken care of.
Positions were assigned for tasks at the horse show. More hands are needed. George Peters will be the judge for this years show.
Mitzi will be contacted about doing next year and possible a clinic this year.
Members were briefed on how to prep their horse for long lining and got to practice some on each other.
Long lining is another tool for improving cotrol and communication between horse and handler.
As we all know the more you do with your horse, the more you can do and the safer and more of a pleasure he becomes.
The March meeting saw ten members in attendance. In clearing up old business we decided to try for George Peters for this years horse show judge.
There were no candidates for office and so it was moved to keep the current slate of officers. President; Deb Tompkins, Vice President Diana Reed-Coonradt, Treasurer; Marilyn Miles, Secretary; Niki Vanderpool.
Equine and human massage dates are still undetermined.
We are getting items on the barn sale page so check it out.... Do you have anything to add?
April is dues month, be prepared at the next meeting with your $3.
At the April meeting we will be advised on what the horse should know before attempting to long line so we can prep them for the clinic.
Bring saddle and bridle along with halter and lines (if you have any, loung line ok) to the April clinic. In addition to learning to line drive we will have a rider evaluation for ‘non-working’ body parts. Locating and addressing stiffness in ourselves that interferes with our horse being able to perform.
The May ride at Bob’s Trees is tentatively slated for the 13th or 20th depending on the whims of Mother Nature.
June 3rd is set for the first ‘drill team’ practice so start working your horses.
Kat Caprio although very sore and rather stiff was on hand for a brief introduction to ‘Rider Dance’ a method of improving horse/ human communication through a better physical partnership. We expect our horse to move to our ‘tune’ but tend to get out of ‘sync’ ourselves, just as we want them to be ambidextrous, yet we aren’t.
Trail ride pics are finally here, see the 'picnic ride' page...
We covered a lot of ground, making up for the cancelled January meeting.
Everyone approved the Christmas party and unanimously agreed to do it that way again.
Remember that March is for nominations and April will be elections and dues.
Marilyn enlightened (and frightened?) the members on the procedures for pulling together and operating a horse show. From insurance coverage and ordering ribbons to entry forms and exhibitor questions. Procuring a judge,( and we could use to hear of some different ones) to stall use and finances.
Various forms of advertising were introduced (Steed Read, NY Horse, whinney.org)and we will look into trying some of them. Posters will be ready and passed among the members at the June meeting for spreading around the area.
To combat rampant thirst we will buy a case (or 2) of bottled water and have it at the booth for parched workers. This will be much more cost effective than buying it that day.
We explored ‘Kat’s’ point sheet method and decided to try it at this years show. Several suggestions for streamlining paperwork will also be experimented with.
A letter will accompany the show grounds deposit in hopes of getting some of the issues, like the faulty gate fixed before this years event.
The Starter classes will have a ‘horsemanship pattern’ in place of the command class this year. It will be held on an outside course. We are in hopes it will work out better for staff and competitors.
An entry form will be made available on line along with the class list.
Helmets will be required of all juniors
Several suggestions were made for upcoming activities;
Due to winter weather the January meeting was cancelled. See you all in February.
December 11th was a beautiful sunny day, perfect for traveling to the Christmas party. The set-up crew arrived early to arrange tables, lay cloths and place decoration. Kat Caprio(an invited guest) found herself pressed to service to truck greens in and she and Carol Wilson showed their talent for applying ‘bling’.
The room had a festive ambience with fresh greens and holiday candles gracing the center of the entire length of tables. Various renditions of ‘sleighing’ accented the greenery, from Santa’s deer to ‘the ole grey mare, a pudgy pony to a high stepping Saddlebred, well matched pairs to a buckskin beauty.
Twisted spires of candles glowed from stately wooden holders on the buffet table. Horseshoed around the Christmas tree and artfully supplied with napkins and plates to fill with the appetizing array. Fruit, cheese and crackers beckoned, hot mulled cider wafted sweetly and steaming trays of scrumptious food waited eager appetites.
Twenty three members and family turned out for the camaraderie, food and fun. Nancy won the lovely wreath from Bob’s Trees and many members got to take candles home with them. After the meal we enjoyed the gift exchange with its many surprising delights.
Many hands made light work of the clean-up and in a twinkling all trace of the party was gone… except for the warm memories. Many photos were taken and I have some up, click here.
The November meeting held in the small room at the extension center was productive. We finalized plans for this year’s Christmas party which will be held at the Co-op on December 11th from 1 to 4 P.M. Get your reservation in, free to members and $10 for ‘significant others’, by contacting Sue Sutch at scsutch@hotmail.com or 882-5367. Dress code is anything better than “just finished mucking out” attire. Most members opt for something festive in red or green or outfits with a Christmas print on them, but anything goes…
Sue Such will be making the food arrangements. (recall what a great job she did with the trail picnic.) A buffet style sampling of tasty treats will be served. Members are to bring their own choice of beverage, coffee and some mixers will be on hand.
Anyone wishing to participate in a gift exchange should bring a gift (under $8). If it is expressly for a male or female recipient, it should be so marked.
In appreciation to Bob’s Trees for hosting the picnic ride we will look into getting decorative greens from them for our centerpieces. It was also agreed to get a wreath to give as a door prize to some fortunate member.
We will use our cream colored tablecloths which will show off the natural greenery, red candles and trim we intend to use in the centerpieces. Diana and Deb will come early to set things up. Deb will pick up the candles, which will be given away to lucky members at the end of the night.
Lou-Ann is in charge of getting the plates, napkins and plasti-ware to set the tables. Judy is in charge of the cider punch and mixers and Niki and Marilyn will take care of the coffee.
In other business we moved the annual elections to April, coinciding with dues month, and will be open for nominations at the March meeting. A rotating hostess arrangement will start with Niki at the January meeting.
An introduction of members was done to give new members a chance to get to know their new friends, and vice-versa. It was pointed out that they couldn’t just go to the web corral pages for this insight because many members have not yet supplied this information to the web mistress. HINT. HINT. Get it in gear folks.
Deb gave a talk on hobbling and picketing, the uses, training and benefits.
We voted to send $100 to the USEF Katrina horse fund.
Marilyn I. Schmidt, DVM, 52, entered eternal life suddenly Tuesday, September 27, 2005.
Marilyn was the daughter of the late George and Irene Schmidt. Survivors include her husband F. Richard Lesser, DVD; sons, Evan Schmidt Lesser and Craig Schmidt Lesser; daughter, Taryn Schmidt Lesser; and brothers, Michael Schmidt of Boston and Robert Schmidt of Rochester.
Marilyn partook and rejoiced in her family's life and activities, including their farm (horses and livestock), sports (skiing, soccer, swimming and sailing), as well as school, church, 4-H and scouting activities. Marilyn was also a leader in the field of equine veterinary medicine. As the owner of the Equine Clinic at OakenCroft, she tirelessly served the needs of horses and horsemen throughout upstate New York for 27 years.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 1 at St. Patrick's Church, Ravena. Friends may call at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that a donation in memory of Marilyn be made to support equine programs at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Contributions may be sent to, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, S2 005 Schurman Hall,
Ithaca, NY 14853.
Reports are coming in on the picnic ride...
It was a beautiful day. We had a great time. What a nice place to ride. There is 1500 acres and the owner said we are welcome to come ride anytime, except when it is muddy in the spring.
Lovely picnic area with place to grill. Bathroom and refrigerators for food. Footing is great and mostly level. Sue did a great job of marking trail and her husband was a great host helping us park trailers and checking on everyone. I vote we go there again.
Martha
The ride was spectacular !! The riders owe a big thanks to Sue- the trails were great- perfect in fact and the markers were right on- I am envious that I can't ride up there all the time.
The picnic was very nice- a really nice place to have it- and of course the food was varied and delicious- (especially the Rum cake- oh my God an immediate buzz! )
Nancy
I know I had a good time. Lynn K. and her sister Patti had a good time as well. I think you will
get very good feedback from all who attended. The place was great, the food was as well.
It was so nice of Sue's family to help out with cooking and everything, they are to be applauded
for a job well done!! Lynn and I were just talking and we both agree that we hope the club decides
to go back there again.
Gail
The September meeting saw two new members join, Welcome girls!
We got some parking information for the picnic ride; there is a large field adjacent to the picnic grounds that may be used to park horse trailers. Time is running out, get your reservations in to Deb or Sue Sutch
Six horses played at the fun day. Most of the horses were highly suspicious of the giraffe that ‘came out of the corn field’. Cody stepped out with 28 year old Cory at hand and won the trail class.(and they had never met before) Diana with Jetta took the booby-brumby prize, but only by 1 point.
We are set to hold the September 18th ride and picnic at Bob's Trees,(rain date Sept 25th)
Please make your reservation before September 10th by contacting Deb at debhorse@localnet.com or calling 966-8629.
stay tuned for more info and a map.
We had a good turnout for the August meeting. The July show was reviewed and suggestions taken to make it even better next year. Dspite the humidity, heat and threatened thunderstorms 86 horses came to 'play'.
A clinic has been suggested, to learn compass reading, picket lines, hobbling and other such back country skills.
A fun day ‘show’ with saddle and in hand classes is being planned for Aug. 28th. No special tack or clothing needed, all in 'fun' activities. We will have burgers and hotdogs and everybody bring their own drinks and crunchies.
The July meeting was attended by 9 members.
Members are signing up for duties for this years horse show and for set-up the day before. If you were not at the meeting, please contact Marilyn and tell her where you would be able to help. Come on folks, this is our one big fund raiser that lets us do everything else.
Everyone is to keep an eye out for ‘circus’ type items to decorate this years trail class. If you go to a dollar store we are looking for the 1/4 pound bags of balloons or any large bags of balloons. Watch those yard sale FREEBIES. Think ‘gaudy’ and large stuffed.
Things like 'car lot flags', hula hoops, big balls, wading pools, etc..... BE SURE TO notify Deb about what you got so we don't duplicate our efforts.
The web e-dresses for two equine performances...
Here are the websites we were talking about and by the way, Cavalia is in Montreal through July 24. So there is still time, all you need is a passport or birth certificate. They did accept Brenda's driver's license instead.
www.cavalia.net
and the Spanish Riding School of Vienna tour,www.spanishridingschool.com or call 1-877-547-4926
The Spanish riding school is coming to America for the first time in 15
years. They are going to be in Philadelphia, PA at the Wachovia Sprectrum
on Friday, November 25 and Saturday November 26. This is the weekend after
thanksgiving. Pennsylvania is the closet that they are coming to New York.
Karen VanVliet would like to get a group of 15 together so that way they can get $10 off
the tickets and once she knows who is going, she will also work to get group
discounts at a nice hotel. Anyone interested, please let Karen VanVliet know by
Wednesday, July 20th next week. She would like to order the tickets early so we can
get good seats.
Ticket prices are as follows: (I encourage the Category 2, seat they are excellent)
VIP gold Circle $150
CATEGORY 2, $ 75 -
CATEGORY 3, $ 55
CATEGORY 4, $ 35
UNDER 2’SFREE
Discounts available for Children under 12,
Seniors over 60 and Groups of 15 or more.
VIP Gold Circle seats are not discounted.
Additional fees, service charges and taxes may apply.
Contact
Karen VanVliet
486-3036
We are building equity in the Country Care Program and Country Supply sent us catalogs to hand out to all the entrants at this years show.
The June meeting was attended by 11 members including some new faces.
WELCOME !
Members are signing up for duties for this years horse show and for set-up the day before. If you were not at the meeting, please contact Marilyn and tell her where you would be able to help. Come on folks, this is our one big fund raiser that lets us do everything else.
Everyone is to keep an eye out for ‘circus’ type items to decorate this years trail class. Watch those yard sale freebies (or nearly). Think ‘gaudy’ and large stuffed. Things like 'car lot flags', hula hoops, big balls, wading pools, etc.....
General business and several side discussions were covered. The orders from Country Supply were on hand to be picked up.
We are building equity in the Country Care Program and Country Supply will be sending us catalogs to hand out to all the entrants at this years show.
Members are to contact Deb about dates they would be available for a fun day ‘show’ with saddle and in hand classes.
We are set to hold the September 18th ride and picnic at Bob's Trees, stay tuned for more info and a map.
The day was sunny and warm for the six club members who turned out to ride the trails at Partridge Run...all say they had a fine time... despite some directional challenges.
Up coming trail rides with the NYS Morgan Club;
June 26 Eastern District Trail Ride, Rockwood State Forest, Fulton County, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
July 10 Eastern District Trail Ride, Brookfield State Forest, Madison County, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
Aug 14 Eastern District Trail Ride, Mohonk Preserve Ulster County, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
Aug 13-14 Western District Trail Ride, Otter Creek, Mary Ann Virgo, mavla@frontiernet.net
Sept 9 - 11 Brookfield Ride, Judy Anderson
Sep 25 Eastern District Trail Ride, Old Chatham Columbia County, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
Oct 9 Eastern District Trail Ride, Mt. Utsayantha Delaware/Schoharie Counties, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
Oct 8 Central District Trail Ride, Mary Ellen Mulligan 607-387-5625, m.mulligan@worldnet.att.net
Nov 20 Eastern District Trail Ride, Minnewaska State Park, Ulster County, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
Jan 1 2006 Eastern District Trail Ride, Beebe Hill Columbia County, Carolyn Bove, (518)392-4143, highbreeze@aol.com
Anyone wanting to do the June 4th ride at Partridge Run contact Marilyn asap.
Fun show on hold due to multiple cancellations by expected contestants.
We will need to find another date with a minimum of five members available to participate.
Send Deb the dates you would come to.
If we set a new date be prepared to bring your own drinks and a nibble to share, we will grill hots and burgers.
We need info for the new 'barn sale' page!
Nine members made it to the May meeting at Diana’s house where we surprised Sherm with a ‘Birthday card and pie’.
In conducting business, we agreed to renew the website and picked a judge for the annual show.
There was no news from Bob’s trees and only a partial listing of the Morgan rides.
Adjustments were made to the class list for this years show to reflect last years entries.
Marilyn handed out copies of the Malta case study from the NYHC.
The fun show day is set for the weekend of May 14th/ 15th… IF we can get enough participants!!! I need to know which day is better and who will be coming for sure! We need at least 5 riders to do this. Must have affirmation now! ! !
The order for the fly spray has arrived, 8 members are paid up. If you want it before the next meeting, contact Deb about arranging a 'pass' or 'pick-up'.
We are planning a trail ride for the weekend of June 4/5 at Partridge run, set for Saturday with Sunday being the rain date.
Clinic day went great, the wind was raw enough from time to time that we were glad to be able to get out of it.
Bonnie did a fantastic job of dealing with horses who had other things on their minds, like missing buddies, new friends, chickens...
and the ever evil, trailer monsters. Seven members with horses, we filled all the time slots, got the benefit of Bonnie's expertise.
Four members watched, while their horses 'rested' at home... but next time?
We are now signed up for Country Supply's Care program.
When anyone purchases items on the www.CountrySupply.com website using our code (ghrc) then our organization will be earning 5% of their purchases (excluding dewormer or shipping).
With this fund raising program simply give our new Care Code of 'ghrc' to everybody you talk to, everyone you know, and anybody who you think would be interested in supporting our cause.
We are getting together to put an order into Country supply and save shipping costs and get a discount price on fly spray. Get your order to Deb asap at the clinic or meeting or by mail.
We have two good dates for a Bonnie Clinic, May 1st and June 4th. Let Deb know your time slot preference asap. There is only 1 slot left for May 1st; the 4-5.
This clinic is FREE to members to take part in or to watch, and will be held at Glenda's farm because there is an outside ring as well as an indoor arena so we can do it rain or shine.
It's not to soon to sign up for the June 4th date as well, to see if we have enough participants for another clinic, first choice to those who couldn't make the May clinic.
Click below for directions to Glenda's arena.
Directions?
April's meeting saw a good turnout with several new faces we hope to see more of. We tossed about some ideas for fun, including;
A ride at ‘Bob’s Trees’ a 1500 acre tree farm. Sue such will look into the possibility of a ride and BBQ there.
There is a plan for a fun show for members and special invited guests on May 14th with a rain date of May 21st. This will be held in the Locust Knoll Farm ring. Members are to think of ideas for ‘classes’ and bring them to the May meeting.
We are looking into the possibility of having another ‘Bonnie’ clinic and hope to be able to arrange to hold it somewhere with an indoor arena.
The annual fall trail ride has been set for Sept 18th with a rain date of September 25th. The location has yet to be decided. Participation this year will be limited to members and special invited guests as voted on by the membership.
The annual horse show will be as always the third Sunday in July, that puts it on July 17th this year.
April is dues month, so be sure to get your $ to the Treasurer. To be considered an active member and eligible for all club events and perks one must work the horse show or set up the day before and assist in trail work and such for the picnic ride.
The topic of this meeting was alternative therapies and holistic remedies. Kat Caprio and Sue Such shared their vast experience and research with the membership. Covering a wide range of topics, from light therapy boots to orange peals, garlic to magnets, and so much more. Members were encouraged to do their own investigations and trust their instincts even when it meant going against the vet’s advice. Kat stated that she would be glad to take calls and share her years of trial and error and many reference books with any member who’s horse needed help.
The next meeting is May 3rd at Dianna’s house.
Now that the logo is digetalized to the embroidery machines we can get whatever with the logo on it whenever we want.
So if you get the notion you would like a blanket ($40) or an item of clothing or whatever you can order it from Mountain View. See their link from the horsen around page.
The 3rd annual PA Horse World Expo is Feb. 25-27 in Harrisburg. Some of this year's speakers are; Lynn Palm, Chris Cox, Julie Goodnight, GaWaNi Pony Boy, Elizabeth Graves, Scott Hansen, etc. admission is $10 per day, adult ticket. For more info check the website at http://www.horseworldexpo.com
The memory books that were ordered arrived and look wonderful, we were even given an extra copy for the club archives. Anyone wanting a book contact Niki or Marilyn, the is cost $20.
The turnout for the February meeting was surprisingly poor considering the beautiful weather. Marilyn announced that the insurance was in place and the rider certificate had arrived so we can continue to use the Co-op building. She had looked into another company but it cost much more than what we currently pay.
Dianna, our beloved VP has finally come into the 21st century and now has e-mail.
We welcome new member Michelle Vedder from Westerlo, who has a 4 year old Paso mare.
After the February meeting we watched a 20 minute video on the Colorado Boys Ranch. They try to turn troubled youth around through interaction with horses. Using horses to teach life lessons, caring and respect. The piece centered on one boy and a pregnant mare who foaled during the clip.
If you are feeling rich, The Danbury Mint is offering a pendant that looks a lot like our logo for a 'mere' $199.
It is crafted of 14kt gold with 12 diamonds in the shoe and is less than an inch in diameter.
There was no January meeting.
The December 14th meeting was at Voorhesville Co-op Ext. The meeting was brief, we intend to sign up again for use of the building for meetings as it is easier for most to reach and allows room for whatever program... without horses.
We had the leftover food from the party and everyone brought some cookies for dessert.
We did a $5 limit gift exchange and had fun even though there were only eight of us.
Any member interested in having a fleece blanket with the club logo in the center should contact Deb, the cost is $40 each.
Be sure and check out the new history-memory page, which includes the report on our party.
WARNING ! ! ! Tack thieves are operating in the area. Several stables have been hit! The culprits take all tack and other equipment.
Be on the alert! LOCKS do not stop them! Beware suspicious characters. Odds are they have/are getting inside information to know when nobody is around.
Take note of licence plates of unknown vehicles hanging around or crusing the area.
For your info..... announce that Master Saddler Tony Cooper from Royalston, MA will be coming to Kim Denbestens for saddle fitting and reflocking.
Those interested in having their saddles reflocked or a more custom fit, please contact below to schedule a time.
Short Bio:
Trained in England under the tutelage of a member of the prestigious Worshipper of Saddlers
Professional Saddler maker for 20 years
US Member of Guild of Master Craftsmen
Has Fitted Saddlers for Olympic Riders
(He does side saddles also!)
Karen VanVliet
Hm 392-6805
486-3036
At the November we tried to pull together the details for the up-coming anniversary party, keep your fingers crossed we didn't forget anything.
Elections of officers were held the results are as follows; Marilyn is still treasurer and Niki remains secretary, Deb and Diana have switched roles, Deb is now prez and Diana is in charge of 'vice'.
November 7th from 4 to 8 pm will be the 50th Anniversary Party. There will be no charge to members, past or present, they may bring spouses for a $10 fee. Reservations will be required.
Any members who can get there early (2pm) are needed to help set up and decorate the Co-op Ext room.
Dress code is somewhere above "I just came from the barn" and somewhere below "top hat and tails" dress to enjoy yourself.
If you have any photos of club members you would like to share bring them along to post during the party and take home with you after.
News from the September meeting;
Reservations are now being taken for the picnic ride. Contact Marilyn immediately if you can be of help to prepare trails.
October 5th. meeting to be held at the Co-op. Ext.
At the Oct meeting we will be deciding the menu for the 50th anniversary party.
Kat Caprio made a short presentation with member participation at the meeting. The point was to get people to think about contact and cues from the horses point of view. It was informative and funny.
The ride in Old Chatham through the Powell Bird Preserve hosted by Little Brook Farm, was held on August 25th. The sun shone and the scenery was fantastic, everyone had a good time.
See the 'show' page for a report on our 50th Anniversary Horse Show.
The August meeting was held at the Voorhesville Co-op. Ext. We had a good turn out and covered a lot of business.
We reviewed the figures for this years horse show, another success despite a considerable increase in costs. Various recommendations were made and discussed for next years show. A full report will be ready soon and posted on the show page, with lots of photos taken by our talented and busy(almost 100 pics) photographer, Betsy.
Sue Barger suggested we add a special Olympics class for "special needs" riders, there are a number of therapeutic riding programs in the area and Reinbeck Fair holds such classes.
Marilyn and Deb have a layout and are going ahead with the memory book.
Diana said that Lynn Dunn is still available for a clinic during the winter months, though she will not be joining due to having moved some distance away.
Marilyn passed around an Editorial named "Is Banning Slaughter the Answer" written by George King, president of the NYS Horse Council.
September 18th has been chosen for this years annual picnic ride, with a rain date of October 2nd; expected location is Locust Knoll Farm.
We have been invited to ride in Old Chatham through the Powell Bird Preserve and park at Little Brook Farm. This farm, owned by Lynn Cross is a rescue operation and also runs children’s camps and therapeutic riding programs. If anyone has horse equipment or magazines that they no longer want, donations of such are greatly appreciated. For more info check the new web site at http://www.h-o-r-s-e.org. The weekend of August 28/29 has been suggested. More on that soon as we have confirmation.
The 50th anniversary Party had to be moved to November 7th from 4 to 8 pm, due to a conflict with the Horse Expo.
A decorating committee has been formed to take care of details in preparation of the hall for the party. The following people volunteered: Diana, Sue Barger, Lou-Ann, Carrie Brosnan, Nancy Eddings (nominated by Carrie) and Debbie. Twelve beige 52 x 90 flannel-backed vinyl tablecloths have been purchased for the tables.
Marilyn has copies of the article she wrote that were printed in the Altamont Express and Greenville Press papers. As a result of this article, a proclamation was presented to the club by Neal D. Breslin of the NYS Senate honoring the club. Marilyn suggested we invite Neal to the dinner.
All hands turned out Sat and the trail class was quickly assembled despite the blistering heat.
There were 98 horses at the show, thiry of them new to our program. Hopefully they had a great time and will be back next year.
The weather was kind to us, staying cloudy with a few cooling drips late in the day. Update with photos is on the show page.
The new classes attracted many entries, trail had 44. The english 13 and under was in short supply this year, perhaps they have all turned 14?
The gift certificates were a nice surprise to some lucky winners.
Our kind lenders of trail accents were rewarded for their kindness, half the wooden garden/lawn pieces sold and all but 4 of the flowers.
The July meeting went well, we had a good turn out. Kat spent 2 hours with us in Marilyn's barn talking about saddle fit.
During the regular business meeting we wrapped up the last details for the show.
Below is a note from Fiona Farrell, Attorney at Law, on the information that Sue Sutch gave us about the new pending legislation regarding the following:
"Senator Larkin has recently introduced a bill in the New York State Senate. Senate Bill 7038-A provides that a percent of money from horse race wagering will go to support equine research, horse trail development, and racehorse retirement. This is a first in the nation!"
"Sad news is that bill 7038A seems to have support from the Standardbred side of the industry but the Thoroughbred side cannot unite on what it wants to see in the bill, plus wants a higher percentage of money to go to it, and opposes money going to other uses such as trails. There has since been introduced a new bill to reform the whole of the racing and gambling industry in NYS, -- that is where the attention of the TB industry seems to be for now.
The received wisdom is that racing bills are decided by only Senator Bruno, Gov. Pataki and Speaker Silver and that there is no room for listening to individuals, grassroots input.
LETS DO SOMETHING ABOUT THAT!!!
CLICK HEREfor info and printable letters to send.
The June meeting saw 12 members in attendance. We had 2 guests, and hope to see them again as members. We are still seeking prices on copies of the memory book, but due to costs are considering only slightly more than just enough for members. It may also have to be black and white instead of color. Maps were handed out for the ride at Duane Lake in Duanesburg on Saturday June 12 at 10 am(gathering time), ride off at 11, for about 2 hours then return for baged lunch.(bring your own) Lynn Dunn, one of our visitors is in mind for a clinic on senior equine nutrition(since most members horses are) sometime in the fall.
We gathered the gift certificates for the horse show and hope to have a few more by the next meeting. There have been some fake greens and flowers found for the trail class and with luck we have more coming.
Assignments for the show were gone over, and a few more helpers would be nice. We still need additional ring help as far as stewards to the judge and gate keepers; it is better if these jobs can be done in shifts.
After business was conducted we had an insightful participation game. The exercise was to help us understand the communication gap between horse and human. Deb introduced it with quotes from 2 famous horsemen.
Clinician Tom Curtin says; “Even though the horse does what the human asks, he checked out mentally 20 circles ago. I speak of this as ‘training on the surface’. There’s no ‘feel’ there.”
Horseman Ray Hunt says; “They take clinics from me, then go out and teach on their own. On a certain level, they do some good, but most are teaching the mechanics and leaving out the mental part that I’m so interested in.”
Half the members played the part of the horse and were blindfolded, the horse is often in the dark as to what the rider wants…. The riders had to direct their horse through a pattern with hands and shoestring reins and without verbal commands. Then the roles were switched.
After the game we watch the first half of Julie Goodnights video on balanced riding. She made some good points with fine examples of what happens when you get out of position.
The next meeting will be at Marilyn’s house and we will have the Kat Caprio saddle fitting clinic in Marilyn's barn. Her equines offer a wide range of back types for demo purposes. Dress for the occasion and bring your saddle if you have specific questions about it.
Remember, if you need to catch up on past news, click the link below. If you need a smile, try the win-E-toons link on the horsen around page, and be sure to read the beet pulp story(look for a squirrel).
Attention!!! New idea... would like to see a photo of each member with their first equine. This is a shot of me on mine.... just shy of 3 years old. No...I'm kidding.... what we are really looking for is a pic of you on your first real live equine buddy,
even if he wasn't that good a friend.... How about it? Click on my 'pony' for a trip to the 'First Horse Page' and a little inspiration,( and a guess who) then get digging and bring the pic with you to the May meeting.
We had much to discuss at the May meeting.
Marilyn contacted George King of the NYS Horse Council and we still do not have the answer to the question about membership benefits for the club.
Debbie Tompkins asked that those people who volunteered to get donations for the horse show to please get them by the next meeting and to make sure and get a business card from the contributors.
Nancy Eddings(click to e Nancy) is heading the collection of gift certificates for prizes for the horseshow.For more on the gift certificates click here.
It was finally decided that all Western classes be made “open” (no age limit) because the classes were small last year.
Horse show jobs were assigned, and we still need members who missed the meeting to sign up.
Members were reminded (once again) that we need fake flowers and greenery for the trail class.
The saddle-fitting clinic with Kat Caprio (postponed from this meeting) will be held at the July 6th meeting at Marilyn Miles home.
It was suggested that we contact the Altamont Rescue Squad.
Cindy Lamb from Backyard Barbeque will have her food cart at the show and has offered to bring a “50th Anniversary” Cake.
Anniversary Dinner (November 13)
Debbie Tompkins asked that the members find out where color photocopies can be done cheaply. We will need 100 copies of our anniversary book (8-10 pages).
Marilyn Miles has sent out notices to the “retired” members asking them to contact us and provide pictures/memorabilia and stories. Diana Reed suggested that we send another note suggesting that these people bring pictures with them.
It was decided that we would do a trail ride at Duane Lake in Duanesburg on Saturday June 12 at 10 am (9 am for Diana) with a rain date of June 13th. We will be parking at Lou-Ann Tubb’s home and riding on the trails around the lake.
Lynn Dunn (Competitive Trail Rider) has offered to do a clinic on equine nutrition.
We have 3 new members:
Kathy Brayton, Nancy Stuart, and Patty Barnes-Bernhard.
There was a guest speaker, Teri Stark on equine massage at the April meeting. She gave an informative talk and answered a variety of questions. For anyone who didn't get her card, she can now be found on the horse links page.
Members are urged to start seeking prizes for the horse show as we need to have them all gathered by the June meeting.
A ride at Partridge Run is being planned, no date yet....
In order to accommodate the schedules of more members the meeting nights have been moved to Tuesdays.
The Rider Dance session on March 25 at 7 P. M. at the Co-operative Extention in Voorhesville, was well attended and lots of fun.
Members have been asked to hold on to any artificial plants (silk/plastic flowers or greenery) for this years trail class.
Nancy Eddingsneddings@mvpHealthCare.com is heading the collection of gift certificates for prizes for the horseshow.For more on the gift certificates click here.
Here is the info on how to get in touch with Carolyn who organizes the Morgan rides.
(Morgan not required)
highbreeze@aol.com and 392-4143.
If anyone plans on going on any of her rides, they should let her know ahead of
time because she needs a head count. Also, if you say you are going and then decide not to, she needs to know that
as well, because if she thinks someone is coming, she will wait for them to arrive. For a list of ridesclick here.
Don't forget to get your permits for riding in the state parks. For a printable request formclick here.
Everyone brought a hay sample to the March meeting and Betsy brought the tested samples from the coop. ext. and presented a short version of the hay talk they had presented on the 28th. It was very interesting and the eye was proven not a reliable indicator of protein levels.
With better weather almost in sight, thoughts have turned once again to putting a ride together at Glen Paris's place in June or July.
Here are 2 sites that have the thermal bucket that Diana showed us.
It's $58 at http://www.ag-co.com/buckets.htm and $54 at rammequinesolutions.com
We covered a lot of ground at the meeting February 4th. Kat was unable to attend, but we put the extra time to good use. Diana gave a report on a new non-freezing bucket she is using.
Marilyn is in charge of trying to get a head count for the anniversary party and Betsy is checking into our first choice location. Everyone was happy with the food at the Christmas party so we will go with the same caterer.
Gail will be looking into the group getting tickets for 'Parelli' in May.
The 'rider dance' session with Kat has been set aside for warmer weather and better traveling. Kat has invited us to have the class at her house in her spacious livingroom, complete with 'healthy' snacks.
The calender project, thanks to an insightful suggestion from LouAnn, will become a memory book instead. This will be more cost effective and give us more time to do it. SO GET THOSE PHOTOS TO DEB!
Thirteen members were present for the group photo in our new club shirts.
The new photos of last fall's picnic ride are up, take a look.
We still need photos and bios for the corral and don't forget to indicate a frame choice.
Due to a conflict the March meeting has been moved to Tuesday the 2nd at Marilyn's house. Everyone is to bring a hay sample for the topic of the night.
A logo image was selected! Twelve members voted 9 to 3 in favor of this logo. T shirt styles were discussed at the meeting, and it was decided to go with a smaller image over the left breast. Regretfully the dark green that is part of the club's colors and logo is not available in the V or crewneck Ts, so we will be going with a standard pocketless T shirt.
The logo is in a small image over the left breast, on a dark hunter green that is part of the club's colors and printed in 'gold' on a standard pocketless T shirt and sweatshirt.
The shirts are ample, a large certainly is large and they are 50/50 so there will be no shrinkage. Members may reserve more shirts at their own cost: T-shirts are $7.50 each and Sweatshirts are available at $12 each.
The annual picnic ride was Sunday, October 26th. At Locust Knoll Farm in Clarksville.
We had a great time!!! More on ride page, send your comments for inclusion... photos too!
The weather was mild and pleasant, trees still sporting a nice mix of colors; perfect for riding! Forty plus riders had signed up,
we had even gained a few with the date change, yet for some unknown reason(s) only 20 horses hit the trails. Spread out in small groups for a relaxing 6 to 7 mile loop, all those who came agreed they had a great ride.
Sherm did a marvelous job as steak cook (we decided to keep him), and the tables were laden with delectable side dishes and tempting desserts.
A number of participants found they were lucky at cards when points were tallied for the cards drawn during the trip.
If anyone finds they got a nice photo please send it along for posting on this page.
Members who rode were: Betsy Buchard of East Berne riding Twinkle, Bonny Curless also of East Berne with Justine, Carrie Brosnan from Duanesburg aboard Easter, Diana Coonradt of Schenectady riding Jetta, Glenda Armstrong from Slingerlands on Copper, LouAnn Tubb of Duanesburg riding Jake, Martha Macdonald from East Berne aboard J.J., Nancy Eddings of Pattersonville with Ju Ju, Nikki Vanderpool from Nassau borrowing Czarina, and Sue Sutch of Galway riding Dexter.
The annual steak roast picnic ride is one of the clubs most popular events.
Usually set for the last Sunday in September to take advantage of the natural seasonal beauty
this year rain forced a reset to the end of October.
The full ride lasted about one to two hours, however as always the route was set so there were
opportunities for riders to take a short-cut back to the trailers. Riders were allowed to move
at their own pace and do as much or little of the course as they prefered.
The day began with arrivals running a little late and the morning social time
of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa with donuts,or bagels an pumkin bread was rather hurried. The ride briefing explained
trail markers and pertinent information, including game instructions. Riders then tacked up, with everyone starting out when they were ready; giving a natural spacing to the horses.
It was the individual's choice who to ride with, and groups generally form in relation to the speed
at which they intend to travel and who was ready to go. As a rule the faster moving groups left first with the scenic enjoyment
groups next.
At 2pm the steaks were ready on the fire! The task of 'keeping the home fires burning' fell to Sherman who did a wonderful job of cooking to 'order'. Everyone brought a dish to pass, from beans to salad, and apple pie to brownie. There were sodas of various flavors as well as the morning beverages, the club also supplied hamburgers and hotdogs for those who don't care for steak or were extra hungry.
The ride itself, contained 'game' opportunities.
In this case there were jumbled words forming two phrases each with the same 'missing' word. Riders had to construct the phrase and guess the missing word. Due to a misunderstanding there were no winners.
The two sentences were: "The hardest thing about learning to ride is______." and "Riding is the art of keeping the horse betweeen you and the _____."
Along the ride route were five tubs with cards, and riders retrieved one card from each; after lunch various questions were asked whos answer 'was in the cards'.
Winners included highest point hand, lowest point hand, and 'yellow rose'(there was only one). desirable was a Zodiac card that matched the riders birth month or a horse head card that matched their mounts age.
All winner were allowed three picks from the prize tables.
On Saturday, September 13 we had a 'Bonnie' clinic, despite the threat of rain and a misting in the afternoon we had a fine time.
Bonnie brought her Morgan mare Justine for demonstrations and participation by her son Tyler. Justine enjoyed some free time in the ring before hand, strutting her stuff and showing off for the arriving geldings.
Betsy worked and assisted with her 21 years young chestnut Saddlebred gelding Ben, who is well versed in many of the maneuvers.
Sue S. brought her bay Morgan mare Lacy, who has really come around and is looking great; and Diana came with her black Morgan gelding Jetta. Both did well once past their equine partners 'surprise' at Bonnie's insistence they actually work. Brenda brought her big half Percheron boy Joey, who was suspicious of the bright blue tarp between two orange cones, but overcame his fear. The participants worked through the 7 games while other members watched from ringside.
A trailer loading session was the last 'game' before a tasty lunch of sandwiches and nibblers. The horses acquiesced to the knowledgeable inducements to get in by themselves, even though none of them were inclined to leave the lush green grass.
After lunch they tacked up to do some one rein(lead rope actually) riding.
Some of the members had to leave, which left the other four horses with very individualized attention. The misting of rain was ignored as the horses and riders worked to master new skills. It was a fun and informative day and we thank Bonnie for her time, patience and expertise.
July 20th was the annual Golden Horseshoe Horse Show!!! We had a great day! See the show page for championship results.
For a West Nile Update click here.
For the July meeting we had a special guest speaker who spoke on equine massage therapies and gave a demonstration on a lucky horse.
Anna Krahforst-Lang, is an equine sports massage therapist, who does "Performance Grooming" in New York.
She is certified by Equissage, Inc. and is from Triple A Stables in Canaan, NY. It was a very enjoyable and informative session.
