A competition clinic/regular clinic will be held with Jane Weatherwax at Golden Hills Farm. You can have a regular lesson or ride a test, which will be scored and then work on improving the test. Your lesson price will be $145.00. All lessons will be 45 min. Price per ride will be $145.00. A haul-in fee is $15.00 per horse/rider combination and stabling is available.

Please contact Ariane Rezvani at daryoush1@msn.com to reserve your spot.

Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue will be having a Tack Sale/ Garage Sale with baked goods on January 28^th  from 9-2 pm. 

If you can help please RSVP rcdodds@sbcglobal.net. Heaven Can Wait will be taking donations of clean tack, sale items, and wrapped baked goods on the 26^th, & 27^th of January.

The sale will be held at:

947 Calimex Pl.

Nipomo Ca. 93444

The local 4H Club will be selling baked items. Ride Nipomo will have beautiful club shirts for sale!

Will reschedule if heavy rain

This should be a great day of fun, and great deals. Don’t miss this fabulous opportunity. If you can’t participate at all and would like to make a donation, you can drop a check off to Heaven Can Wait or send directly to:

H.C.W.

P.O. Box 5

San Miguel Ca. 93451

Through a series of exercises and simple drills participants discover a new connection to their horse. We approach obstacles and refusals with positive communication which keeps rider and horse calm and responsive. We also find that when we prepare for certain things off the horse it translates quicker once riders are mounted. For riders that attend not because they are having trouble, but just want to have better skills, this clinic helps them make their horse more responsive using less cue (and less Drama!)

Our obstacles are really very simple. You determine the level of challenge for you and for your horse at each obstacle. (aka “Nothing scary unless that is your “Challenge by Choice”)

We are not another desensitization or “spook” clinic.

Challenge by Choice Horsemanship workshops develop rider skills, and help diffuse dramatic situations that arise when riding. With acceptance of a wide range of participants, from fairly inexperienced riders or green horses, to considerably experienced people and some very well trained horses (and some horses who have learned a few evasion “tricks”) and anxious riders with phobias or riding stresses, a nice mix allows a variety of experiences from which all participants can learn and grow.

March 24 & 25, 2012 clinic is taking reservations now. $275 for 2 days with $100 deposit.

Send to: The Wagner Ranch/Eric Wagner Training, POB 567, Pismo Beach, CA 93448

Event will be held at the Starlite Meadow Farm in Nipomo, CA. Overnight stabling is available.

Interested in offering this workshop in your area or at your facility? Contact us to learn how!

Challenge by Choice Horsemanship Clinic(c) can be offered at your ranch or club.

If you have access to a covered arena it’s a nice winter option for trail riding clubs to keep horses tuned up while the trails are muddy.

Challenge by Choice Horsemanship Clinics have been conceived, developed and are facilitated exclusively by Eric Wagner & Beth Wonson. Visit our website for more information: www.TheWagnerRanch.com

Hollywood, CA – The Painted Ladies are aptly named for riding beautiful paint horses.  The extreme drill team kicked off the New Year riding in Hollywood’s prestigious Christmas parade. They have also ridden in the Tournament of Roses Parade, Nascar events, Folsom’s Pro Rodeo.  Equine VIP followed the ladies thru a practice where they show off some pretty fancy footwork.

www.EquineVIP.com  covers all disciplines of riding and horses, trainers and equestrian VIPs because  “If It’s About Horses, We Cover It.”  For more information: Susan@equineVIP.com 310 953-1745

Prancing Hearts an equine outreach for kids needs cash for lesson horse care. So we are selling a whole truck load of tack; some new, some used.

English and Western:

Saddles, pads, bridles, halters, leads

Clothes and boots

Miscellaneous

Too much to list:

Call Denise for more info: 489-8534

http://captivehearts.org/blog/?p=558

(We are a 501c3 so your cash donations are tax deductible)

The Pro Equine Grooms “Best Grooming Tip” Contest features prizes furnished by Kentucky Performance Products.

December 1, 2011 – San Diego, California, USA

Pro Equine Grooms is pleased to announce the supplier of prizes for the Weekly “Best Grooming Tip” contest as Kentucky Performance Products for the month of December.  Grooming tips can be added by any www.proequinegrooms.com visitor to any of the existing TIP or BLOG articles about grooming.  Currently, there are 83 articles with three to five articles added weekly.  Winners are chosen weekly, and the most innovative tips are awarded prizes. 

Liv Gude, Founder of Pro Equine Grooms, is a former Groom who startedwww.proequinegrooms.com as a community for Grooms and other Horse Industry Professionals to join together in supporting Grooms.  “The primary purpose supports the  professional development of an Equine Groom.  Pro Equine Grooms provides the only resource for Grooms seeking information about their industry, job options, their discipline, their rights, insurance issues, legal issues, and information about Grooming”.  In working towards this mission, Pro Equine Grooms welcomes all members of the Horse Industry to join in this community and learn from one another.  It is this community that will support Grooms and help bring their valuable job and place in the Horse Industry into the spotlight.

Kentucky Performance Products (KPP), the company that brings you Neigh-Lox® equine antacid and Summer Games® Electrolytes offers a full line of affordable, effective nutritional supplements. The company’s research-proven supplements are specifically developed to target the unique challenges facing today’s horses.  Karen Isberg, President of Kentucky Performance Products, is an avid supporter of Pro Equine Grooms and has been working with Liv Gude since the launch of www.proequinegrooms.com in August of 2011.  Karen, a former Groom also, understands the need to support Equine professionals and Grooms, who are the “heart and soul of the industry.”  “We are really excited about December’s contest.  The Pro Equine Grooms website holds a wealth of information and the contributions by fellow professionals are invaluable. I can’t wait to read the entries and assist the winners in picking out the KPP supplement that will best meet their horse’s needs”, says Isberg.

Pro Equine Grooms and Kentucky Performance Products look forward to this union of resources and distribution of prizes.  You can learn more about Pro Equine Grooms at www.proequinegrooms.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/proequinegrooms and  Twitter at www.twitter.com/Proequinegrooms.  You can learn more about Kentucky Performance Products at www.kppusa.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Kentucky-Performance-Products/97866043678?ref=ts or via telephone at 1-800-772-1988.

Hollywood Park, CA  –  Meet world class race horse, Zenyatta, and her trainer John Sherrifs on Equine VIP.  Zenyatta was named racehorse of the year and Breyer Horses honored Zenyatta by producing a collectable model of the famous horse.  Simply register to win this beautiful model horse on Equine VIP’s December contest “Win a Horse” – a horse anyone can own along with other great prizes.
 
Don’t miss another featured video of Equine VIP Ramon Becerra with horse lover Shania Twain.
 
http://www.equinevip.com/  covers all disciplines of riding and horses, because
“If It’s About Horses, We Cover It.”
For more information:

Susan@equineVIP.com

310 953-1745

Horse Expo Pomona promises to be a fun-filled gathering of like-minded horse enthusiasts February 2-4, 2012 (Thursday-Saturday) at the Fairplex in Pomona. This event will be like no other that’s ever been presented in Southern California.

“It’s fairly obvious to the horse world that we’re holding this expo on the same dates as Equine Affaire has for a decade,” comments Horse Expo Pomona founder Miki Cohen. “But what we’re bringing to these three action-packed days is really unique and festive.           

“We recognize that our Expo will be the first we’ve created in the area,” continues Cohen, “but we have an incredible track record of bringing the ever-popular Horse Expo to Sacramento for over a decade — which people love.

“Now that we’ve decided to expand and present a world-class Expo in Pomona, we want people to really feel welcomed, entertained and educated. In fact, we’re offering free parking for the first 100 cars each day, hearty meals for only $7, and our Expo Bucks will give you $3 off admission. So people can come armed with an Expo Buck and get entrance admission and all three meals for only $36,” continues Cohen. “What a great deal!”

One thing that stands out in the staging of this new event is the expansive presentation of horse trailers. They’ll all be displayed outside, where you can kick tires and poke your head into the living quarter models. In fact, there will even be trailer trade-in opportunities, financing, and a trailer service area. The horse trailer display will be huge, much like what Sacramento’s Horse Expo offers, including trucks, ATVs, barns, corrals and tractors.

Attendees can stroll through outdoor vendor booths on their path to the various arenas where competitions and demonstrations take place each day and on Friday and Saturday nights. A variety of horse breeds can be admired along the way.

“We know that shopping is a significant reason why people gather together at horse expos,” smiles Cohen. “We’re creating a new, friendly atmosphere for people to talk to vendors and view their products. For a lot of people, this will be like a family reunion, and it’s the same for the vendors too. It’s exciting to see familiar faces and new products. The new vendor areas — some outdoors — will accompany our plans for different arena layouts. It’s a whole new event in just about every way possible, and we’re really excited about it! And I know attendees will be over-the-moon thrilled about all the activities at the Expo — competitions and demonstrations by the best in the business.”

Horse Expo Pomona will welcome horse enthusiasts Thursday – Saturday, February 2-4, 2012 (no event on Sunday so you can watch the Super Bowl!). And remember to download your Expo Bucks on-line (http://www.horseexpoevents.com/) for a $3 discount on admission tickets — and come early so you can be one of the first 100 cars to get free parking!

For more information about this exciting event, visit http://www.horseexpoevents.com/.
 

 
Irvine, Calif., November 29, 2011 – HorseChannel.com’s Horse Grooming College, sponsored by Wahl Clipper Corp., is under way, but it’s not too late to register at http://www.HorseChannel.com/GroomingCollege.
 
The program runs until May 2012.  Upcoming courses include cold-weather bathing alternatives, mane and tail care, sport horse styling, and equine skin problems.
 
Horse Grooming College provides a unique interactive educational opportunity for horse owners to brush up on their grooming skills. Open to anyone with an interest in equine grooming, Horse Grooming College is free and is a partnership between Wahl Clipper Corp. (http://www.wahl.com/), Horse Illustrated® magazine (http://www.horseillustrated.com/), the leading all-breed, all-discipline equine publication, and HorseChannel.com (http://www.horsechannel.com/), the premier online destination for horse enthusiasts.
 
Horse Grooming College is a 13-month program with a comprehensive curriculum that includes helpful tips and techniques for every aspect of equine grooming.  Each course includes a reading assignment and other materials that will help prepare students for the quiz necessary to pass each class.
 
“Horse owners take pride in making sure their horses are well groomed and looking their best,” said Elizabeth Moyer, dean of Horse Grooming College and editor of Horse Illustrated and Horse Channel.com. “Horse Grooming College provides the basic grooming skills every horse owner needs, plus expert tips for show grooming, seasonal care and more.”
 
To graduate, students must complete all 13 courses and receive a score of at least 60% in each course.  Each qualifying graduate will receive a diploma and be entered in a drawing to win clippers from Wahl and download coupons for Wahl products.

The mission of Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers (CCCMB) is to expand the network of sustainable and enjoyable trails in SLO County and to maintain the trails currently in use. Since 1987, CCCMB has worked with California State Parks, the National Forest Service, San Luis Obispo City, and San Luis Obispo County in designing and building new trails and in maintaining existing ones. 

Help CCCMB keep the trails of SLO County open and fun to ride by joining us for trail work. Just bring yourself and water. Wear long sleeves, long pants, sturdy boots, gloves and a hat.

Santa Margarita Lake: December 11, 8:30am

Meet at White Oak Picnic Area at main entrance.  This trail needs lots of help because the water runs down the center of the trail causing major erosion.  The other issue is that brush is growing on the inside of the trail, pushing horses to the outside edge and breaking down the trail.  There are two options for working:

• One is to take the pontoon boat across the lake to work on the western end of the Falcon Trail (almost directly across from the White Oak dock).  This will involve some hiking, and individuals can decide how much hiking they want to do.  We will be working on fixing drainage issues to get the water off the trail and reduce erosion.  This will be the more strenuous option.
• The other option is to ride in from the River Road entrance and ride up the east entrance of the Falcon Trail (closer to the Sapwi Trail).  The goal here is to bring loppers and cut back vegetation that is growing on the inside edge of the trail, which forces horses to the outside edge which breaks down the trail.  This group can decide how far they want to go.  It is not expected that you will ride the entire trail.  It is better that you don’t, so that you won’t meet the group working from the west end.  You will need to bring your own loppers.

Participate in just one trail work day a year. It makes a difference!

http://www.cccmb.org/
kathyredden@yahoo.com

We would like to congratulate the 11th annual Mid-State Classic Rodeo District 7 athletes representing San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. They performed extremely well against tough competition from around the state.

Congratulations to the All-around Cowgirl winner, Ali Bilkey from Olive Grove Charter School in Los Olivos; a top 5 winner in Breakaway Roping, Pole Bending, and Team Roping.

The All-around Cowboy winner, Tyler Forsberg from Moorpark High School in Fillmore; a top 5 winner in the Tie Down contest, Steer Wrestling, and Boys Cutting.

The Rookie All-around Cowgirl winner, Emily Mangione from Nipomo High School; a top 5 winner in Barrel Racing and Pole Bending.

We would also like to congratulate the following top 5 winners: 

Rachel Dewar from Arroyo Grande High School

Hayley Hamer from Santa Ynez Valley Union High

Taylor Prather from Desert Sands High School

Cheyenne Rey from San Benito High School

Jenna Drammer from Santa Ynez Valley Union High

Tristan Ruffoni from Arroyo Grande High School

 Wyatt Cox from Arroyo Grande High School

Kory Rupe from Atascadero High School

Lane Luis from St. Joseph High School

JT Prather from Desert Sands High School

Cody Snow from Olive Grove Charter School

Sage Massey from Paso Robles High School

Corrin Bowman from Righetti High School

Dane Bass from Templeton Independent Study

Taylor Santos-Karney from Templeton High School

Caden Clay from Righetti High School  

To see the results of the entire rodeo visit  http://www.chsradist7.com/

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 14, 2011) – With the change of seasons, USRider – the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians – reminds those who travel with horses to be careful when traveling and invest time doing routine preventive trailer maintenance to enhance their travel safety.
It is imperative to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving. Be sure to maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s service schedule. It’s also important to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic.
“When it comes to vehicle maintenance, especially heavy-duty vehicles towing precious cargo, it is better to be proactive than reactive,” said Bill Riss, general manager of USRider. “If you have not already done so, establish a relationship with a trusted ASE (http://www.ase.com/) mechanic. It is essential that you do this before your vehicle breaks down on the side of the highway while towing your horse trailer.”
USRider recommends that you check tire pressure before each trip. This is especially important with temperature changes. If you are traveling from a warm climate to a cold climate, air pressure in your tires will drop. On the other hand, when traveling from a cold climate into a warm climate, the air pressure will rise.
A weak battery will usually reveal itself during cold weather. If your battery is more than a couple of years old, be sure to check it prior to cold weather setting in. Otherwise, you will most likely be inconvenienced on some cold morning when the battery fails to start your vehicle.
When driving, a good rule of thumb to follow on the road is “rain, ice & snow – take it slow.” Before setting out on a trip, take the time to check weather reports and plan accordingly. Be sure to allow extra time for inclement weather. Mother Nature doesn’t care that you need to be somewhere at a certain time.
Always drive with your headlights on during inclement weather – even if it is not dark. USRider recommends that horse owners drive with headlights on anytime when trailering horses, regardless of weather, because of increased visibility afforded by using headlights.
Also during inclement weather, be sure to increase distance between vehicles to allow more stopping time. USRider recommends that you double the normal distance between vehicles when towing a horse trailer.
“Stopping on snow or ice without skidding and/or jackknifing takes extra distance. Use brakes very gently to avoid skidding,” added Riss. “If you begin to skid or jackknife, ease up on the brake and steer into the skid to regain control.”
During winter months, traction tires are recommended. In order to qualify as a traction tire, tires must have at least an eighth of an inch of tread and be labeled Mud and Snow, M+S, All-Season, or have a Mountain/Snowflake symbol. Since tire performance can vary, a trusted area dealer may be able to advise you on the best tires for your vehicle.
Since it’s difficult to know what road conditions you may encounter during the winter, make it a practice to re-fuel when your vehicle fuel gauge drops below the halfway mark. In many states, you can dial 5-1-1 for travel conditions and road closures.
In some states, vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), including some passenger trucks, SUVs, RVs, and vehicles towing trailers, must carry chains on certain highways November 1 through March 31. Check with the Department of Transportation or Department of Motor Vehicles for information on the states you will be traveling through.
USRider provides roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits to its members through the Equestrian Motor Plan. Standard features include flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, towing up to 100 miles, roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, emergency stabling, veterinary referrals and more. For more information about the USRider Equestrian Motor Plan, visit http://www.usrider.orgonline/ or call (800) 844-1409.
For additional safety tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website at http://www.usrider.org/.

Not just another spook clinic!  Through a series of drills, goal setting, community building and exercises, you will:

• Learn to connect before mounting
• Positive communication
• Skill development for unanticipated trouble
• Strategies to diffuse drama
• Learn from other riders

Open to all levels of experience (horse and rider).  Bring your horse or use a ranch horse (by reservation).
This 2.5 day workshop begins on Friday, Dec. 2 at 9:00 a.m. and ends by 4:00 p.m. Saturday, December 3 (9-4) and Sunday, December 4 (9-1).
Mounted activities are 60% of the time.  Ground work/group work is about 40% of the time.
Registration fee is $350.  Enrollment is limited. On site board available.
To register call 805-489-7368 or ewagnertraining@yahoo.com. Deposit required.
For more info go to http://www.thewagnerranch.com/.

Mini Clinics

Have fun, add to your tool kit and build a community of riding buddies! 
These are not spook clinics.  Spook Clinics are about desensitizing your horse.  Challenge by Choice Mini Clinics are about developing tools, skills and strategies for improving riding pleasure and managing your horse in any situation. 

Drills Mini Clinic – It is not about the obstacle, it is about your tools!
Each session we will highlight one of the 5 drills.  You will have an opportunity to get positive results by practicing constructive strategies to help you on the trail, in the arena or anytime you and your horse are confronted with a challenging situation.

Open Equitation Mini Clinic – Riding as an Athletic Activity!
We will start with a short and relaxing tai chi exercise session. Then you will mount your horse and become re-engaged with the fundamentals of good horsemanship.  Riders and horses will have fun, build muscular strength, endurance and stamina and develop skills for group riding.

Fee:
Prior “Challenge by Choice Horsemanship 3-day Clinic” Participants  $20 per session
Never attended a CBC Horsemanship 3-day Clinic – $30 per session
Use a ranch horse (based on availability) $10 per session
Audits – $10

Reservations and payment must be made in advance.  Register for 4 or more sessions and get a 5th session free.
Enrollment is limited.
To register call 805-489-7368 or ewagnertraining@yahoo.com. Deposit required.
 
Dates:  Saturday, Nov. 19 – Open Equitation 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
            Saturday, Dec. 17 – Drill Day 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
            Saturday, Jan. 7 – Open Equitation 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
            Saturday, Jan. 21 – Drill Day 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

1^st Annual Used Tack Consignment Sale Saturday December 3^rd from 9am to 4pm.

Bring in your used horse items and get them sold!

Accepting English & Western items including saddles, blankets, stable items, grooming items and clothing!

Drop off your items between now and November 30^th.

Get there early for the best selection!

Food and drinks will be available for sale while you shop!

Contact (805) 461-6411 for more information.  

Atascadero Hay & Feed
6155 Via Ave
Atascadero, CA

www.AtascaderoHayandFeed.com

Find Atascadero Hay and Feed on Facebook too!

Los Olivos, California – October 24, 2011 – California High School Rodeo Association (CHSRA) District 7 announced today that the Mid-State Classic Rodeo is scheduled for November 11-13, 2011 at the Paso Robles Event Center. One of the largest high school rodeos in California, the Mid-State Classic attracts contestants from six of the nine CHSRA districts. Nearly 300 high school students will participate in a full range of rodeo events, including bareback riding, barrel racing, breakaway roping, bull riding, calf roping, cutting, goat tying, pole bending, saddle bronc riding, team roping and steer wrestling.

“District 7 has consistently been one of the top districts in California,” said Sara Honegger, District 7 student board president. “Our district has so many talented competitors, many of which made nationals this past year and in previous years as well. This multidistrict rodeo is a great opportunity to see how we all are against people outside of our district. It is always such a great rodeo. I think the students new to high school rodeo will love it and become more hooked on the sport.”

Admission is free for this kid-friendly, family event. “We encourage the public to come out to the Paso Robles Event Center and support these hard-working and skilled high school kids,” said Ken Dewar, District 7 adult board president. “We also encourage the community to support high school rodeo by participating in our silent auction, shopping at the vendor booths and providing sponsorships and donations to help us keep rodeo entry fees affordable. Sponsorships are essential to helping us continue the rodeo tradition and supporting members in advancing their horsemanship skills and athletic abilities.”

The Mid-State Classic Rodeo begins Friday, November 11 at 11:00 a.m. and runs through Sunday afternoon. In conjunction with the rodeo, District 7 is conducting several fundraising events, and a number of vendors will be selling horse-related gear, clothing and supplies during the rodeo. Scheduled activities include:

Friday, November 11
11:00 a.m. Cutting, rounds 1 and 2
7:00 p.m. Bull riding, bare back, saddle bronc, round 1

Saturday, November 12
8:00 a.m. Bull riding, bare back, saddle bronc, round 2 followed by round 1 of goat tying,
steer wrestling, breakaway roping, pole bending, tie down roping, team roping
and barrels
2:00 p.m. Silent auction opens

Sunday, November 13
7:00 a.m. Cowboy church
8:00 a.m. Grand entry followed by round 2 of goat tying, steer wrestling, breakaway
roping, pole bending, tie down roping, team roping and barrels; awards
ceremony
2:00 p.m. Silent auction closes

To sponsor CHSRA District 7 or to donate items for the silent auction, contact Sheila Mangione at sheilam@mangionepayne.com. For additional information on the Mid-State Classic Rodeo or CHSRA, visit http://www.chsradist7.com/ or contact the appropriate membership secretary: For high school, contact Sheila Mangione at sheilam@mangionepayne.com; for junior high, contact Stacey Nance at staceynance@mac.com.

About CHSRA District 7

CHSRA is a nonprofit organization that maintains the order and standards set up by the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) and promotes high school rodeo on a state level. District 7 encompasses San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. The district is committed to promoting the highest type of conduct and sportsmanship at the various rodeos to encouraging boys and girls to continue in school and participate in rodeos and then continue on to college.

I offer contract drafting and negotiation services for all your equine business needs.  I specialize in “horse friendly” contracts, considering the well being of the horse first.  I believe in balanced, equitable contracts…all parties are important and all parties are treated fairly.  I also offer services in drafting 501(c)(3) Exemption Applications, with an emphasis in animal rescues.  I have over 15 years’ experience in nonprofit corporate law, transactional and general business law.  I am very experienced, responsible and reasonable.  There is no charge for an initial consultation.

Ingrid A. Kingaard

805.458.9384

ikingaard@aol.com

In the heart of Paso Robles wine country is a special event that will warm the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Join Heaven Can Wait Equine Sanctuary and Second Chance at Love Humane Society on Saturday, November 12 from 11am to 3pm for a relaxing afternoon that gives back to some loving animals in need of your support. By doing some shopping, and enjoying amazing Paso Robles wine, chocolate, olive oil, and cheese – all in one place – you can help save at risk horses and dogs. At the event, you can tour the amazing sanctuary facility and meet the horses of Heaven Can Wait that will be directly impacted by your participation.
A fabulous raffle item will be offered: a Sycamore Mineral Springs Spa Suite in Avila Beach and a dining certificate at the Sea Venture Resort in Pismo Beach!
A portion of the day’s proceeds will benefit both the Horses at Heaven Can Wait  and Hounds of Second Chance at Love. For more information visit http://www.heavencanwait.us/  or http://www.secondchancelove.org/ or call 805-434-3982.

The Central Coast Arabian Horse Association and The Eric Wagner Training Center invite you to attend a Problem Solving and Fundamentals meeting at The Wagner Ranch on Sunday, October 23rd.

If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t get my horse to …”  or “I get nervous when my horse….”  then bring your horse on out to the Wagner Ranch and Eric will help guide you through some exercises and plan strategies for a better ride.

This will also be the CCCAHA October general meeting during the provided lunch. We will start promptly at 10:00 am and reservations are required.  $10 for CCCAHA members $20 for non-members includes Auditors.

Horse space is limited and will be on a first come, first served basis as received by email (NO phone calls please for reservations).
ewagnertraining@yahoo.com

Santa Ynez, California – October 7, 2011 – The Santa Ynez Valley Arabian Horse Association (SYVAHA) is now accepting registrations for the 2011 Sage Hill All Breed Competitive Trail Ride. The ride will take place November 4 through 6 at Live Oak Camp off Highway 154 near Lake Cachuma.

“The Sage Hill Ride attracts riders ranging in age from 10 to 70,” said Kathy Stegman, Sage Hill ride manager. “This year we are particularly excited about the increase in participation by junior riders. Nipomo 4-H, for example, is bringing 10 riders. Other 4-H groups have also expressed an interest and those riders are currently looking for sponsors to help with entry fees.” SYVAHA gives a 20 percent discount on entry fees for groups of 10 or more.

Sanctioned by the North American Trail Conference, the Sage Hill ride features open,competitive pleasure and novice divisions. Open riders cover 50 to 60 miles in the two-day period, and competitive pleasure and novice riders cover 35 to 40 miles. A one-day novice ride covers approximately 23 miles. There is also a 12-mile introductory ride for people who want to learn more about the sport of competitive trail riding and camping with your horse, but don’t want to go the full 20+ miles the first time out.

The trail leads riders through spectacular scenery at the eastern end of the Santa Ynez Valley, offering water crossings, sandy washes and other challenges that enable riders to improve their horsemanship skills. Experienced judges score riders on the way they handle and care for their horses and how well they negotiate natural trail obstacles. Veterinary judges score horses on condition and the ability to complete this rigorous ride. Riders receive copies of their scorecards so they can understand their strengths and weaknesses and improve their skills.

SYVAHA is seeking sponsorships and donations to help cover the costs of the event as well as sponsors for 4-H riders. Please contact the following people for sponsorships and donations:

• Ride sponsorships: Sylvia Beverly, 805-688-2000

• Silent auction items: Sylvia Beverly, 805-688-2000

• 4-H rider sponsorships: Kathy Stegman, 805-710-4471 (kkstegman@cs.com).

The organization is also seeking volunteers to work at pulse and respiration (P&R) checkpoints, to assist judges in recording points for horse health and horsemanship or to just bring a book and be a gate opener. If you would like to volunteer, contact Kathy Stegman at 805-710-4471 or kkstegman@cs.com.

For ride entry forms online, visit http://www.syvaha.com/, click on  and print the forms. Call Kathy Stegman at 805-710-4471 (kkstegman@cs.com) or Anne Plucy at 805 688-2912 (trail.ryder2@verizon.net) for more information or to request forms by mail.

California Coastal Horse Rescue, a l0-acre non-profit equine rescue and sanctuary in Ojai, has received a Challenge Grant from the Hind Foundation in San Luis Obispo. In addition to sponsoring the Fund’s inaugural year, the Hind Foundation will match every dollar contributed to CCHR by Central Coast-wide donors up to $7,500, generating a total of $15,000 to advance this new community equine outreach.

The California Coastal Horse Rescue Emergency Hay Fund — Sponsored by the Hind Foundation will help feed Central Coast horses that are close to losing their homes due to their owner’s extreme financial hardship. “We are pleased to sponsor this innovative new CCHR Fund,” said Greg Hind, Hind Foundation president, Central Coast philanthropist and horse advocate. “It will provide temporary hay assistance without charge at the most crucial time. Our family has a special love for horses, and we are excited to help prevent their displacement from the families who love them.” Hind is a San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year for his support of vital charitable causes.

“This rare new Fund is keeping many horses from losing their homes or even being euthanized due to foreclosures and a continuing difficult economy,” said Cindy Murphree, CCHR director.

“CCHR has helped abandoned, abused, neglected and displaced horses in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County for over 12 years,” Murphree said. “We coordinate temporary foster homes statewide, and take calls from anywhere for advice or referrals for horses in distress. We also partner with local law enforcement and fire departments to help with community horse evacuations in disasters. All horse assistance is provided free of charge.”

To make a tax-deductible gift to help Central Coast horses and earn the Hind Foundation’s generous match, visit http://www.calcoastalhorserescue.com/ and click on Network for Good. Checks can be mailed to CCHR, 11235 N. Ventura Ave, Ojai, CA 93023. Caring people with secure facilities are also invited to become certified foster horse families. Please call 805/444-6746 or 805/649-1090.

Trafalgar Square Books is pleased to announce the launch of gold-medal-winning eventer and Tevis-Buckle-winning endurance rider Denny Emerson’s new blog: http://howgoodridersgetgood.wordpress.com/.
 
Based on the premise of his bestselling new book HOW GOOD RIDERS GET GOOD, Denny hopes that his blog will provide an online forum for riders from all disciplines—a place where riders, trainers, and coaches can meet, discuss, and square-off on hot topics, and a touchstone for progress in every part of life, with and without horses.
 
In his book, Denny shares what he sees as the necessary character traits for a rider to become good, and for a good rider to become great. In addition, 23 of the very best riders and trainers in the world—including Beezie Madden, Stacy Westfall, Anne Gribbons, and Clinton Anderson—explain their road to the top and the choices they made on the way there.
 
Now he invites YOU to tell your story. Did you “get good” or “get stuck” somewhere along the way? Are you a “wannabe” or a “gonnabe”? Check out his latest post, comment and share your opinion. Get feedback on where you are in your riding development from Denny himself. Agree? Disagree? These are discussions worth having. And if you want to GET GOOD, they are worth having RIGHT NOW.
 
Denny’s book HOW GOOD RIDERS GET GOOD is available now from the Trafalgar Square Books online bookstore http://www.horseandriderbooks.com/ (800.423.4525).
 
For more information about Denny Emerson’s new blog (http://howgoodridersgetgood.wordpress.com/) or his book, contact rdidier@sover.net.

The Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) in San Luis Obispo County will be hosting two workshops, the first on October 15th, the second later in the Fall. These workshops are geared toward educating and supporting owners of livestock.
 
On Saturday, October 15th, join us for a workshop on:
Combating Mud with Paddock Management
 
This workshop will focus on site planning, paddock management and rainwater catchment to improve the condition of your horse property. The program will start promptly at 9:00 AM at the Community Center, 211 Vernon Street in Arroyo Grande. Come a little earlier at 8:30 and mingle with other horse owners over refreshments. 
 
Please RSVP as space is limited to Nicole at
 nsmith@coastalrcd.org or call (805) 772-4391
 
The workshops are part of the newest RCD program, Livestock and Land. The goal of the Livestock and Land Program is to raise community awareness, knowledge and support about management practices necessary to meet the needs of happy owners, healthy livestock and thriving watersheds.  The Livestock and Land Program has been tremendously successful in neighboring counties to the north, and is now launching this pilot program in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. As a member of the livestock community, you are essential to the success of this program!
 
You can learn more about the program at the Livestock and Land website at http://www.livestockandland.org/, which includes downloadable publications, and/or call or email your local RCD for further information:
 
Nicole Smith
Coastal San Luis RCD
645 Main Street, Suite F
Morro Bay CA 93442
805-772-4391
nsmith@coastalrcd.org

Shayna Bailey
Upper Salinas Las Tablas RCD
65 South Main Street, Suite 107
Templeton CA 93465
805-434-0396 x 5
shayna@us-ltrcd.org

Elite Equestrian magazine has been published for four years now, and has grown consistently to establish a solid standing in the equestrian print media market. With this foundation, the publishers of Elite Equestrian are proud to announce that we are expanding our line of magazines with a full size (8 x 10) luxury equine themed lifestyle magazine… Equine Flair.

The publishers of Elite Equestrian believe that luxury is an art, not a trend. Anyone who appreciates quality desires it in every aspect of their life. The passion combined with the time and financial demands that equestrian pursuits encompass is a perfect exemplification of lifestyle versus hobby.

The dedicated equestrian possesses a mind set that penetrates every aspect of one’s life- time spent, finances, travel, even personal style and home decor- a true lifestyle. Equine Flair epitomizes this standard.

We are proud to welcome a number of seasoned contributors who are the manifestation of equestrian lifestyle:

L.A. Pomeroy: American Horse Publications’ 2008 best Feature Article finalist and 2010 Freelance Writer Equine-related Journalism (Print) Award winner. L.A. Pomeroy works inside the highest levels of FEI and Olympic equestrian sport, and has turned her Harvard University education in visual design and stylish Manhattan and music world connections into an inside track on what’s hot (and who’s not) in equestrian art, collectibles, entertainment, fashion and design. In addition to being her state’s only female sports journalist accredited with the International Alliance of Equestrian Journalists, and National Sportscasters and Sports Writers Association, she is official Media Liaison for the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), and regularly provides image and wordsmithing services, and social media administration, to a stable of equestrian companies and media outlets.

Vicky Moon: Writer and photographer Vicky Moon has chronicled the lives of the rich, the not-so-rich, the famous, and the not-so-famous for more than twenty years. She has covered murders and prominent lives for People Magazine and the Washington Post; and written about lavish hunt balls, International polo matches, steeplechase races, and parties for Town and Country, Millionaire, Veranda, and Southern Accents magazines. She has served as a contributing editor for House and Garden. Ms. Moon is the author of The Official Middleburg Life Cookbook, The Middleburg Mystique: A Peek Inside the Gates of Middleburg, Virginia, A Sunday Horse: A Year on the Grand Prix Show Jumping Circuit, Best Dressed Southern Salads, The Private Passion of Jackie Kennedy Onassis: Portrait of A Rider,, Equestrian Style: Home Design, Couture, and Collections from the Eclectic to the Elegant.

Jeanne Chisholm, The Chisholm Gallery: Located in the picturesque and historic Pine Plains, New York, Jeanne first opened the Chisholm Gallery in the grandstand of the Palm Beach Polo & Country Club with her late husband, Hugh Jeremy Chisholm in 1978. Their gallery was an immediate success and quickly acquired the largest collection of polo art for sale in the world. Jeanne has worked with museums throughout her life, her accomplishments including curating an exhibit commemorating 100 years of polo history at the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Museum and Hall of Fame in Aiken, South Carolina. Jeanne has served as the Coordinating Director of the National Polo Museum and Hall of Fame. The renowned London Colnaghi Gallery invited the Chisholm Gallery to participate in their very first sporting art exhibit. Jeanne and her work have been featured in Architectural Digest, Town and Country, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Polo Magazine, Equine Visions, Palm Beach Life, and many more publications.

The management at Elite Equestrian is very excited about the premier of this new addition to our line of publications. Equine Flair will set a precedent for the exhilarating, dedicated lifestyle of discriminating equestrians everywhere.

Tack shops, feed stores, boarding stables, horse trainers and other equine businesses in all of the 50 states are being encouraged to be part of the coupon section in the forthcoming 2012 The Horse Industry Resource Guide.
       
The Horse Industry Resource Guide, which in 2011 included more than 100,000 horse businesses, product manufacturers, horse trainers, vets, etc. is digitally published each year by One Horse Press.  It includes a national section featuring horse products, services, and breed and show organizations.  The “state” section includes services ranging from tack shops and feed stores to horse trainers and boarding stables.  This year’s edition will also include coupon sections for each state, and a “Made In The USA” section.
         
“Coupons, which offer either a discount or a rebate, are a great way for horse related businesses to expand their customer base and to stimulate each state’s equine industry economy,” says Laurie Cerny, owner of One Horse Press.  “The more that can be done to help local equine businesses, the better.”
 
The coupon section will be in addition to the basic business listings in the guide.  A basic business listing, which includes the business name, phone number, and address is free.  In addition, upgraded listings are available for just $10 for a bolded listing that includes an email address and web site, or $20 for 75 words of descriptive text. Coupons are just $20.
    
For more information about The Horse Industry Resource Guide call (269) 657-3842, or go to https://sites.google.com/site/thehorseindustryresourceguide/  An inclusion form for the “Made In The USA” section can be downloaded from the site.  A form for the coupon section is also available at the website.

 Trail work — maintenance and creation — is tough. It takes a lot of people to be willing to do the work to get trails put in and maintained. With the current economic downturn, all of us who ride trails need to step up and pitch in. It sends a message to park managers that we – the equestrian community – are committed to our local trail system. It also says that we are committed to working with other multi-use trail users such as hikers and mountain bikers. So in the spirit of community involvement, here are trail workdays sponsored by the Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers. Just bring yourself and water. Wear long sleeves, long pants, sturdy boots, and a hat.

Trailwerks Event at Froom Ranch (SLO): November 12, 8:00am. Meet at Laguna Lake Park 

Fernandez Trail (Black Mountain): November 19, 9:00am. Meet at Turkey Flats

Montana de Oro: December 3, 9:00am. Meet at Hazard Peak Trailhead parking area

Santa Margarita Lake: December 11, 8:30am. Meet at White Oak Picnic Area at main entrance

Montana de Oro: February 5, 8:00am Super Bowl Sunday. Meet at Park Headquarters above Spooner’s Cove
Participate in just one trail work day a year. It makes a difference!

http://www.cccmb.org/
kathyredden@yahoo.com

The 2012 AHP Internship Handbook and applications are now available online at www.americanhorsepubs.org/students/internship_program/index.asp to college students who have an interest in horses and seek a career in equine publishing media.
 
The AHP Internship Program is a great way to provide students with the resume-building experience that’s so critical to today’s job market. Interns gain valuable hands-on real life experience and AHP members acquire additional help when and where they need it most.
 
AHP is the nation’s only non-profit professional association of over 450 members dedicated to promoting better understanding and cooperation within the equine publishing industry. Membership consists primarily of equine-related print publications and electronic media as well as individuals, businesses and organizations serving the equine industry.
 
AHP serves as the umbrella organization for the internship program and is responsible for creating the application process, providing the forms, the mailing list, and a directory of the participating AHP member publications and businesses. The Internship Handbook includes program guidelines, expectations and responsibilities of the intern and the AHP participating member, and a directory of AHP participants.  Each listing includes thepublication or company name, a brief description, types of internships offered, availability/duration, requirements, information on compensation and housing, and contact information. Students apply directly to the AHP member, who will choose the applicants that best meet their needs. AHP members may hire more than one intern.
 
American Horse Publications also offers students wishing to become involved in the equine publishing an opportunity to join the association and participate in other student programs.
 
Student Membership is open to high school, college, and graduate students for an annual fee of $25. Student Members receive an opportunity to attend the AHP annual seminar at a reduced registration fee, a free listing in the online AHP Membership Directory, the AHP monthly e-newsletter,“AHP For the record,” and are eligible to enter several classes in the AHP annual Awards Contest. To learn how to become a Student Member, go to http://www.americanhorsepubs.org/membership/join/student.asp  
 
AHP Student Award Contest awards up to three $750 travel awards to attend the AHP seminar in Williamsburg, Virginia, on May 31 – June 2, 2012. Travel Award winners have an opportunity to meet leading equine publishing professionals and discuss career possibilities during the three days of educational sessions and related activities. One Travel Award winner will be selected at the seminar as the 2012 Student Award winner and will win a cash award of $1,000 plus an all expense paid trip hosted by Publishers Press to one of their Two-Day Customer Education Seminars in Louisville, Kentucky. Students are eligible to enter the contest if they are a high school senior or an undergraduate college student during the 2011-2012 college year before graduation. All qualified applicants will receive a complimentary Student annual membership, a complimentary Student registration certificate for the annual seminar and a critique of their resume. The AHP Student Award Contest is open to residents of the US and Canada only.
The AHP career brochure, Horses + Media = The Coolest Careers in the World is available online at http://www.americanhorsepubs.org/career_center/brochure.asp

For more information about AHP student programs, contact Christine W. Brune, Executive Director, American Horse Publications, (386) 760-7743, or e-mail: AHorsePubs@aol.com.

Fort Worth, Texas — The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame has received two national awards for its distance-learning program, the 2010-2011 Pinnacle Award from the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC) and the 2011 Teachers’ Choice Award from the Berrien Regional Education Service Agency for the second year in a row.

 
For the 2010-11 school year, the Cowgirl Museum was one of the 25 distance-learning providers in the United States to receive the coveted Pinnacle Award and the only recipient in Texas. This is the first year for the museum to receive the award, having received honorable mention in 2010.

 
Through its 26 distance-learning programs, the Cowgirl Museum reached 16,963 students in 2011 (a 75% increase over the last school year) via 435 distance-learning program sites— more than any other content provider through the Connect 2 Texas program, sponsored by the Texas Education Agency. The museum also provided 91 classes to students in other states and four classes to international audiences. Listed on the museum’s web site at http://www.cowgirl.net/ are the programs available to elementary and secondary schools and other organizations. Each program lasts 45 minutes. For information, contact Cindi Collins, school services director of the Cowgirl Museum, at 817-509-8697.

 
“We are extremely proud of our school services staff and programs” said Patricia Riley, the museum’s executive director. “These awards bring validation to what we already knew. Reaching out in this medium is a key part of our mission and deserves this recognition. This and the other educational services we offer will continue to grow.”
 
About the Pinnacle Award

The Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (http://www.cilc.org/), established in 1994, is an Indiana-based not-for-profit organization specializing in access to applications and the utilization of videoconferencing for live interactive content and professional development, as well as web-based collaborative learning environments for K-20 education. CILC provides consulting expertise in videoconferencing, integration, problem-based learning products, school-community partnerships and effective techniques for the delivery and development of quality programs.

 
The CILC’s Pinnacle Award is presented annually to organizations posting outstanding K-12 standards-based interactive videoconferencing programs to http://www.cilc.org/. To qualify for the award, the provider must receive a minimum 2.85 average score out of a possible 3 on its program evaluations from educators during the school year. The evaluation assesses seven areas, two related to the effectiveness of the presenter and five related to the educational content of the program. All content posted to http://www.cilc.org/ by Pinnacle Award winners is marked with the CILC flame.

 
About the Teachers’ Favorite Award

The Berrien Regional Education Service Agency, the cooperative based in Michigan’s Berrien County, maintains a content provider database with a listing of videoconferencing resources. For its annual Teachers’ Favorite Awards, educators from across the country vote to select the best content and videoconferencing service providers. (http://www.berrienresa.org/)

 
About the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame (http://www.cowgirl.net/) honors and celebrates women, past and present, whose lives exemplify the courage, resilience, and independence that helped shape the American West and fosters an appreciation of the ideals and spirit of self-reliance they inspire. The museum, located at 1720 Gendy Street in the heart of Fort Worth’s Cultural District, is considered an invaluable national educational resource for its exhibits, research library, rare photography collection, and the honorees in its Hall of Fame.

Bowie, Md., – Aug 29, 2011 –  American Horse Publications (AHP) member Valerie Ormond will be a sponsor and a judge for Voice For The Horse’s first children’s writing competition this fall.  Ormond, author of Believing In Horses, invites AHP members who may have an interest in sharing the news of the competition with young writers, or who want to learn more about the project to visit  1st Annual Voice For The Horse Children’s Writing Competition ~ Subject Wild Horses.
The competition officially begins Oct 1, 2011, and runs through Dec 31, 2011, but the organization began pre-launch activity early to provide people time for thinking and research and to provide information to potential additional sponsors for this first-time competition.

This writing competition was inspired by Atticus, the Wild Stallion of Deadman Valley, British Columbia (B.C.), Canada who was captured in the winter of 2011 and rescued by CritterAid / Project Equus in the Interior of B.C.  To create awareness for the wild horse populations of the United States and the preservation of them, Voice For The Horse contacted Saving America’s Mustangs, and founder Madeleine Pickens responded with great enthusiasm for the project.  Theresa Nolet,CritterAid / Project Equus, also embraced the program and its effort to bring equine awareness to communities across the continent, to those both in and outside of the horse industry.

The competition provides unique, free, learning opportunities and the hope is that children will have the ability to share their love for horses across North America through their writing.

For more information, please visit http://www.voiceforthehorse.com/.

It’s not uncommon for horse owners to select hay simply based on what looks “good”, or the recommendations of others, or what’s available at the local feed store. How can you learn what’s really in that hay? Is it going to provide proper nutrition for your horse’s needs? Clair Thunes, PhD, shows you how to take a hay sample to send to a lab for nutritional analysis. In addition to being an independent equine nutritionist, Dr. Thunes is a certified hay sampler with the National Forage Hay Testing Association. In her Summit Equine Nutrition program, she has worked with a wide range of horses from lactating mares to competitive driving horses, and with a variety of physiological problems including insulin resistance and muscle myopathies. Dr. Thunes believes in finding the right balance in the horse’s diet for optimal performance. Contact Dr. Thunes at http://www.summit-equine.com/.

View this high-definition video at http://www.bayequest.info/2minvideo/117.htm.

The American Competitive Trail Horse Association is counting the days until the new nationwide reality series America’s Favorite Trail Horse premieres on HRTV. The series will showcase the top 100 trail horses from all over the country as they compete in Austin, TX on the Franklin Family Ranch for $100,000 in cash.
         

The show will air each week, for 13 weeks starting September 13th 2011 on HRTV (Dish channel 404 and local cable) on Tuesdays at 8pm (EST) and will be repeated at 11pm (EST) and Sunday at 8pm (EST). The show is also available on http://www.actha.tv/ and http://www.hrtvlive.com/ . Dish Network has also joined in on the celebration and is gifting viewers who subscribe or switch to Dish Network with a $50 ACTHA Gift Certificate.
         

In each episode viewers will have the ability to vote for their favorite trail horse at http://www.actha.us/ and $5000 will be awarded to each episode winner. Voting will open for 48hours after each episode has been aired. The finale will feature all of the episode winners and will award $50,000 to the top 3 horses of the entire series. 
         

The purpose of America’s Favorite Trail Horse is to bring attention to the great American trail horse that has served this country so magnificently. ACTHA Founder, Karen VanGetson states “It is our sincere hope that this effort will cause many riders to get back in the saddle again and rescue horses that are in desperate need of a home, a cause which is dear to the heart of the American Competitive Trail Horse Association.”

Can you provide a proper home? – Horses need safe and appropriate housing, so owners must decide whether   to use a boarding stable or setting up horsekeeping on their own property.
 
Have you explored the less glamorous aspects of horse care? –For every hour spent in the saddle, there are probably two or three devoted to taking care of your mount, and more if you are maintaining horse property – and these chores don’t take weekends and holidays off. If you’re new to horse ownership and care, it’s important to understand what’s involved.
 
Can you really afford a horse? – In addition to budgeting for routine expenses such as feed and farrier care, first-time horse owners need to be prepared for the costs of unexpected veterinary visits, miscellaneous horse care supplies and more. New horse owners will need to get outfitted with basic tack and equipment, adding to start-up costs.  Riding instruction should also be considered a smart investment to get off to a good start with a new equine partner.
 
Do you have time for this? – Horse ownership is time consuming. Potential horse owners should consider how they can manage the demands of a job, family, friends and finances and still be a great horse owner.
 
The complete article on buying your first horse, titled “Shop Right – A How-to Guide for Horse Shoppers” is part of Horses USA’s 15-year anniversary issue.  To read the full article, pick up the 2012 edition of Horses USA, on newsstands or online at http://www.HorseChannel.com/HorseUSA2012 beginning August 23, 2011. 
 
Horses USA is produced by the editors of Horse Illustrated® magazine (http://www.horseillustrated.com/) and Horsechannel.com (http://horsechannel.com/). Horse Illustrated is the largest all-breed, all-discipline horse magazine and has been published for over 35 years.  HorseChannel.com is an online community where horse lovers come for reliable information in an interactive, educational and entertaining environment.
 
For questions about the magazine, contact Lisa MacDonald, marketing director, at 949-855-8822, ext. 3345.

Santa Ynez, CA – Petrine Day Mitchum is no stranger to Hollywood movies.  Petrine is the daughter of actor, Robert Mitchum, so combining her interest in horses and movies was natural for the author.  Hollywood Hoofbeats shares portraits of famous movie horses with personal accounts by their owners, trainers, and co-stars. The book includes historic accounts of horse stunts – from a fall at mid gallop to a race across a bridge during a live explosion.
 
http://www.equinevip.com/  covers all disciplines of riding and horses, because
“If It’s About Horses, We Cover It.”
For more information:
Susan@equineVIP.com
310 953-1745

Do you know a farrier or equine veterinarian who performs much-needed hoof-care work for a therapeutic riding center without charge? Maybe someone who provides free footcare clinics for 4-H Club youngsters or works closely with local Pony Club members? If so, here is your opportunity to celebrate this person’s volunteerism.
To recognize the dedication and volunteer efforts among hoof-care professionals, the Delta Mustad Hoofcare Center and American Farriers Journal are again sponsoring the “Summit Achievement Award.” Started in 2009, this award honors members of the hoof-care community who have freely given their time and expertise to help horse owners and groups in need of assistance.
 “The Summit Achievement Award is the pinnacle of recognition for farriers contributing their time and talents back to the equine industry,” says Glenn Hause, Director of North American Marketing. “The award represents the hallmarks we embrace as part of our mission statement and core values as a company.”
The 2012 award winner will receive $2,000 to use toward future volunteer efforts, as well as free registration and travel expenses to next winter’s International Hoof-Care Summit being held from January 31 to February 3, 2012, in Cincinnati, Ohio. During a ceremony at the Summit, a plaque will be presented to the winner and also to the group for which the volunteered services were provided.
Previous winners of the Summit Achievement Award include:
Bob Smith, Plymouth, California, 2009.
Margie Lee of Palo Alto, California, 2010
Doug Stanley, Ore City, Texas, 2011.
Nominate A Volunteer
Anyone may submit a nomination for the 2012 Summit Achievement Award before September 30, 2011. Visit www.americanfarriers.com/ff/givingback on the American Farriers Journal Website to obtain further details and the entry form for this recognition program. In addition to completing this form, please write a 1- to 2-page summary explaining why your nominee should be honored for his or her exceptional volunteer hoof-care work.
A panel comprised of hoof-care professionals will select a winner based on the amount of time, money, other contributed resources and the innovation of the contribution in terms of creativity and uniqueness. The judges will also evaluate the impact of the volunteered efforts to the equine community, the level of contribution on the local, regional, national or global level, the results of the volunteered work and the amount of required skill and knowledge.
This is your chance to nominate a well-deserving colleague and show them how much you appreciate his or her volunteered dedication and commitment to the equine industry.