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We had a lot of news items related to the Kentucky Derby come in last Friday. While they're now a little behind the times, we still wanted to share just a couple of them with our readers. For more, visit our news archives at www.nwhorsesource.com and click on the "news" link at left. 1. Derby winner's shoes featured in AFJ, now on AFJ.com Would you like to know more about the shoes that wound up in the Winners Circle at Churchill Downs last Saturday? Then visit the American Farriers Journal Web site at www.americanfarriers.com. Big Brown, the colt that ran away from the field to win the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, was shod with Yasha Shoes, developed by racetrack blacksmith Ian McKinlay of South Amboy, N.J. The Yasha Shoe is a combination of a flexible and lightweight shoe that is bonded to a coated polyurethane rim pad. We interviewed McKinlay about the shoe at the International Hoof-Care Summit in January. The American Farriers Journal April "Shoeing Showcase" issue included a story on the new technology on Pages 90 and 91. We've also posted the article on your Web site at www.americanfarriers.com/ff/yashashoe. 2. Call for Change in Wake of Derby Tragedy | | |
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A reader passed the following message along to us, and I wanted to share it with our riders that might be planning a trip to the area this weekend or in the near future. Whether you are a BCHW member or not, it's useful information, and if you have the time and expertise, I'm sure they could use some help with the repair effort!
Good Morning, I talked to the Mount Baker Ranger District today and have some news. The Baker Lake Trail suffered some damage this winter. The North end of the trail was moved last year about 50 feet to the East to avoid the river. Well this winter the river moved to the East also and the trail is again sloughing off into the river. The Hidden Creek Bridge, The Z shaped one with the big waterfall, received so much snow that on the South end it has cracked a log stringer. The USFS is recommending no horse use until this can be repaired. It is a long fall if the bridge fails. They will be putting up signs at the two ends of the trail and on the bridge. It is their hope to get it repaired. They will be searching for money. They are committed to keeping this very nice trail open for stock and hikers. The trail is open from the south, but there is a rough ford at Anderson Creek. I haven't seen the ford so can't comment on how good or bad it may be. Please pass this on to our members so they can plan accordingly. Thank you,
Mike McGlenn
Trail Head Chair | | |
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Sadly, much of the commentary I've been following on the articles devolved into people using this incident to speak to political views or personal issues that have nothing to do with the animals, or even the people, involved in Thoroughbreds and the racing industry. I trust our readers to care about the horses, to take a moment and reflect not only on the death of Eight Belles, but on the larger picture in which it happened. So, I'd like to know, what do you think of this event, and what it says about racing and the Thoroughbred industry in general? We would like to hear from our readers, and perhaps be able to put together a tribute to this brave filly whose life ended far too soon. All viewpoints are welcome, as long as they relate to the issue at hand. You can reply to this post, or send comments to editor@nwhorsesource.com. | | |
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Have you visited the NWHS photo gallery lately? We've been adding to it frequently, with all kinds of photos from activities, events, and general horse fun. Just click here to go to the gallery menu or visit www.nwhorsesource.com and click on the Photo Gallery link on the left-hand menu. This will take you to the gallery for our staff ride last spring. To view other galleries, just click the "My Gallery" button in the top left corner of the page. 
From the BCHW Confidence Builder Ride gallery
From the NWRCHA Lynden event gallery
Note: if you use an older browser, the program may ask you to upgrade for better viewing. The gallery is not recommended for dial-up viewing.
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The Kentucky International Equine Summit took place last weekend, and throughout the course of this event, there was much discussion on the state of the equine industry as a whole. While those of us who ride or show here in the Northwest may not find much of interest in the racing-related discussions, one concept that affects all of us is the concept of unity among horse people across all disciplines and locations. Speakers cited the recent American Horse Council study that clearly showed that Americans want to have at least some association with horses in their lives. From dedicated "city folk" to those born and raised on the ranch, we consider horses a part of our heritage and a symbol of freedom and connection with the land. Although primarily focused on the racing industry, the published results of the summit have something to say to all of us. Two links for more information: Women as horse ownersUnity and the equine economy | | |
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We just received confirmation from Hallmark that the final title for the movie we've been working with will be "Every Second Counts." This suits the team penning theme of the movie as well as its focus on the time the characters spend with each other. I have to say, out of all the titles it's been through, I like this one the best (not that have any say in the matter, of course).
So, watch for our feature on "Every Second Counts" in the July issue of Northwest Horse Source. Our story will encompass interviews with actors Stephen Collins and Magda Apanowicz, stunt rider Jerri Duce Phillips, and horse wrangler Lee Phillips, as well as a look at the lives of horses in the movie industry.
But before then, there are plenty of other exciting things coming up in the pages of NWHS. The May issue should be hitting the stands any day now, with several features and columns related to trail riding and how to prepare and stay safe. This issue also features a great story about a well-behaved little donkey who decided she needed a bit of a summer vacation.
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The Equine Photographers Network announced the results of their "Equine Ideal" photography contest earlier this month. Click here to read about the contest, which included categories for professionals and amateurs. To view the winning photos, click here. Some the the amateur work is absolutely incredible (for the pro work, that goes without saying). I completely agree with the People's Choice Award in the professional category...that shot is amazing. View it here. | | |
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If you love to talk to horse people and have some sales experience, NWHS would love to talk to YOU!
As the magazine grows, we are looking for sales reps throughout the Northwest to help us reach out to their own local horse communities. NWHS is committed to serving the needs of the region through education, promotion, and information specific to Northwest horse owners. If you'd like to learn more about this opportunity, just click on the link below:
http://www.nwhorsesource.com/artman/uploads/sales_person_wanted_ad_nwhs.pdf
If you're a college student trying to get a start in the magazine industry, we have a couple of internship opportunities available as well. These are site-specific opportunities, so only Bellingham/Blaine area applicants are considered for internships at this point. Email editor@nwhorsesource.com to find out more about internship possibilities.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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Monday greetings to you all! Last weekend, as I was preparing to send out our semi-monthly newsletter, I was looking at Julie Goodnight's "Tip of the Month" that we usually include. She has some great info and we love to run her tips, but I'd also like to hear some horsekeeping tips from other sources. Do you have a special way to handle your horse that others might find useful? Grooming tips, tack care tips, anything else you'd like to share? Share them with us and we'll get your message out to others. If you'd like to share your horsekeeping tip, email it to editor@nwhorsesource.com. Tips will be considered both for the newsletter and to print in the magazine. Byline will be included, so be sure to make note if you prefer to remain anonymous. Have a great week! | | |
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I have to admit it...I'm a sucker for certain types of Internet quizzes. I know some see them as a waste of time. Most of them are a waste of time...but a fun waste. Today I found something different. If you have any interest in rare breeds of horses, take the challenge and see how you do: http://www.funtrivia.com/playquiz/quiz20108517067a0.htmlI only scored a 7 out of 15, which I felt pretty lousy about until I saw that the average score was 6 out of 15. It starts off pretty easy (especially if you grew up on Marquerite Henry books), but gets a bit more difficult as you go along. What I like about this quiz is that it not only tells you which answers you got wrong, but gives a little explanation and history about the *right* answer for each question. Go ahead, take the time. Take the quiz. Let me know how you do. | | |
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Have you visited our events calendar lately? Now that the weather has warmed up a bit, there are all kinds of activities for all kinds of horse people and all kinds of horses all throughout the Northwest. We even have some events listed outside the region, so if you're checking in from afar or have travel plans in your future, take a look and see what's coming up that you don't want to miss. Here is just a brief sampling of upcoming events. For the full calendar, click here. April Upcoming Events:| 18 - 20 | Idaho Horse Expo | Join clinician Alice Trindle for a three-day mini-clinic during the Idaho Horse Expo. Group Riding Patterns and Dressage for Everyone! | Nampa Events Center
Nampa, ID | Susan Triplett
541-856-3356
Email
Website | | 18 - 20 | AMHA Sea Tac Classic | Grays Harbor Fairgrounds | Elma, WA | Barb Hento
360-398-2729
Email | | 18 - 20 | Western Idaho Horse Expo | Come Ride With Us www.idahohorsecouncil.com Come watch a 3-Day Clinic with Alice Trindle, Group Riding. Also see her at the educational seminar booths and Round Pen Demonstrations. | Idaho Horse Park & Event Center
16200 Idaho Center Blvd
Nampa, Idaho | Debbie Amsden
1-208-465-5447
Email
Website | | 19 - 20 | Level 2- 3R’s of Resistance Free® Horsemanship Clinic | Level 2 is designed as continuing education for all riders that have taken the 3R’s of Resistance Free® Horsemanship Level 1 Clinic. The clinic can also be taken by anyone from intermediate to world class riders who want to increase their knowledge and communication skills to become the best rider they can be. For more information check out our website. | 4520 Anderson Road
Blaine, Wa. | Tom Lutton
360-371-3109
Email
Website | | 19 - 20 | Parelli Natural Horsemanship Tour Stop in Harrisburg, PA | Join Linda & Pat Parelli as they present their mission to raise the level of horsemanship worldwide by helping people Reveal their horse, Discover their potential, and Live their dream. You will see experience confidence, joy, fun, excellence, performance, answers to problems... in fact, an absence of problems...! It doesn't matter what you want to "do" with horses, you need to have the horse WANT to do it WITH you. | PA FARM SHOW COMPLEX, LARGE ARENA
2300 N CAMERON ST.
Harrisburg, PA | Parelli Natural Horsemanship
1-800-642-3335
Email
Website | | 19 - 19 | Sig's 4H Club Open Spring Horse Show | Open show with usual english & western w/t/c classes as well as Discipline Rail, driving and reining offered. Schooling allowed if gaits maintained. A fun show to get your horse going for the show season. Lynden arena, 8am start. High points! Call for more information | Lynden WA | Lisa Hamstreet
360-318-0501
Email | | 20 | LRS Games Day | Barrels, poles, sock race and lots more! All ages (child to senior). English and western! Lots of fun come and join us! | Langley Riders Arena
4303 208 Street
Langley, BC | Amanda
Email |
Do you have an event you would like to post? Just click here and fill in the form. We take our magazine events calendar (the "What's Happening column) straight from the online calendar, so if you want to see your event in the magazine, be sure to get it posted before the 5th of the previous month (i.e., May 5th for the June magazine). Have a great time, and maybe we'll see you at an upcoming event! | | |
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Here's something that's both a news item and a sneak peek into the May issue of Northwest Horse Source... July 6-12 is National Farriers Week. For May, we're bringing you an article on common sense horseshoeing specific to the Northwest region. Although the practice of horseshoeing is certainly open to debate, if you do shoe horses, it makes sense to do so in a way that takes into account the rainy environment throughout much of our region. If your horses go barefoot, your farrier or barefoot trimmer is still a crucial person to consult for overall hoof health and making sure your horse is at its best. So stay tuned for the May issue, and in the meantime, here's an announcement about National Farriers Week: Say Thanks To Your Farrier
National Farriers Week, July 6 through 12, represents a special time to thank the footcare professionals who help keep your horses healthy and functional
Brookfield, Wis. — Since horses with bad feet can lose their ability to properly function, the thousands of farriers across North America deserve to be specially recognized once a year for their dedication to keeping horses’ feet healthy.
In recognition of the valuable work performed by hoof-care professionals, National Farriers Week is being held this year from July 6 to 12. It is an appropriate time for horse owners, trainers, riders, grooms, equine veterinarians and others to recognize the effort and training required by the men and women who shape and protect hooves in order to keep the animals comfortable and functional.
Horse owners who want to show a special appreciation for the exceptional work of their farriers can download a certificate of recognition by going to www.americanfarriers.com/ff/certif on the American Farriers Journal Web site.
Other ways to show a farrier appreciation throughout the year include:
• Providing a level, clean and well-lit work area for handling footcare needs.
• Having the horses properly cleaned and ready prior to the farrier’s arrival.
• Having someone available to keep nervous or ill-behaved horses calm during the footcare work.
• Training your horses at a young age to be comfortable with having their feet handled.
• Working with the farrier to develop a regular footcare schedule.
• Taking the time and making the effort to say “thanks” for a job well done.
“Doing one or more of these things will demonstrate that you understand the difficulty of the farrier’s work,” says Frank Lessiter, editor of American Farriers Journal. “You’ll also make it possible for the hoof-care professional to focus on your horse’s feet. That represents a winning combination for everyone, especially the horse.
“Trimming and shoeing a 1,000-pound horse is hard physical labor, but also requires an ever-increasing level of technical knowledge. Most horse owners don’t realize how much there is to know about a horse’s feet and trimming and shoeing them appropriately.
“Farriers often attend specialized training schools and serve apprenticeships prior to practicing the trade. They also attend numerous seminars and clinics to continue their education and keep up with the latest research and shoeing techniques. They deserve a tremendous amount of recognition for their efforts.”
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Last Wednesday, I made the trip down to Seattle to hear my friend ![[info]](http://p-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif) anghararead from her new YA fantasy novel, Spellspam, part of her Worldweavers trilogy. What does this have to do with horses? Well, along with Alexander, Kay Kenyon and Toby Bishop were also reading from their latest novels...and for Toby Bishop, that meant book 2 of her Horsemistress Saga. Based on the Lipizzaner "Airs Above the Ground" movements and training, the Horsemistress Saga begins with "Airs Beneath the Moon" and continues with "Airs and Graces," the book from which Bishop read. Book three, "Airs of Night and Sea," is due out this December. A horseperson all her life and erstwhile cowgirl from her childhood on a Montana Ranch, Bishop now lives in Western Washington, and mixes horses, dogs, music, and fantasy in her fiction. For more about Toby Bishop and her horses, visit her online or click on one of the book covers below. | | |
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Yesterday, I received word that the horse movie we've been working with, "Fast Time," has changed its title. This is common practice in the movie industry, but I thought you might want to keep current. The title is now "The Ride of Her Life." One of the people we were privileged to talk to at the filming of The Ride of Her Life was stunt rider Jerri Duce Phillips. Watching her take off down the arena on "Ginger" was awe-inspiring, but her talents go far beyond penning and Western work. A trick rider since the tender age of 9, Jerri now runs a school in Alberta for trick riders, starting with students as young as 6 years old. She was the first woman inducted into the CRHA Hall of fame in 1997, and has performed all over the world. Her school in Alberta focuses on individual attention, safety, experienced instruction, and having a great time. Personally, I found Ms. Phillips very warm and welcoming. This is a woman who knows her horses, and will protect both the horses and their riders with a maternal love that is both stern and kind. If you have an interest in finding out more about trick riding, vaulting, trick roping, or other training your horse for these unique pursuits, visit Jerii Duce Phillips' Trick Riding School online at www.trickriding.com. | | |
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Here's a highlight from last week's news releases:Every Horse Needs an Annual Dental Exam, Says the AAEP Horse owners can submit questions about dentistry during April in “Ask the Vet” Because proper dental care is vital to a horse’s overall health, the AAEP is launching a campaign to promote the need for horses to receive a thorough oral examination at least once a year. Designed to reach horse owners, the campaign will kick off in April and run through 2008. It is important to catch dental problems early. Horses with dental problems may show obvious signs, such as pain or irritation, or they may show no noticeable signs at all. But left undiagnosed and untreated, a dental problem can develop into a much more significant health concern. In a 2006 study of horses suffering from chronic weight loss, 20 percent of the horses experienced weight loss due to dental disorders.[1] In addition to weight loss, the inability to chew feed into small particles can lead to colic, and the bacteria associated with gum disease in the horse’s mouth can migrate to other areas of the body, similar to what occurs with gum disease in humans. “Routine dental maintenance is the easiest step an owner can take to prevent a more serious problem from developing,” said AAEP President Eleanor M. Green, DVM, DACVIM, DABVP. “When you schedule vaccinations or a Coggins test for your horse, this is the perfect opportunity to schedule a dental examination with your horse’s veterinarian as well.” During April, the AAEP’s “Ask the Vet” feature on aaep.org will focus on equine dentistry. Drs. Lynn Caldwell and Elizabeth Schilling of the Equine Dentistry Committee will answer questions from horse owners about dental health. In addition, a variety of educational articles and resources about equine dentistry are available on the AAEP Web site. Visit www.aaep.org/horseowner to learn more. A horse-health article, “Learn to Recognize Your Horse’s Dental Problems,” is available for reprint to the media. This article, along with “Frequently Asked Questions with Dr. Jack Easley” and the campaign’s logo, can be downloaded at www.aaep.org/dentistry_campaign.htm. For more information about the AAEP’s dental campaign, contact Sally Baker at (859) 233-0147 or sbaker@aaep.org. The American Association of Equine Practitioners, headquartered in Lexington, Ky., was founded in 1954 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of the horse. Currently, the AAEP reaches more than 5 million horse owners through its nearly 9,000 members worldwide and is actively involved in ethics issues, practice management, research and continuing education in the equine veterinary profession and horse industry.
Don't forget--NWHS has its own "Ask the Expert" section on the website at www.nwhorsesource.com! | | |
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I like to try to post something fun on Fridays--horse games, events, something to get the weekend off to a good start. Today, I'd like to look at something just as fun, but a little more awe-inspiring. There are a great number of equine artists all around the world, and many of them have offerings for a variety of budgets. Even if you aren't looking to buy art, just viewing a few examples of horses as seen through an artist's eyes can be a way to calm and relax yourself and get ready to enjoy the weekend ahead. If you're interested in exploring the work of new and established equine artists, check out http://www.equineartguild.com/. You can search artwork by artist, horse breed, discipline, medium, or geographic location. Find an artist near you, or one around the world. Below are a links to a few of my favorite artists found at the Equine Art Guild: http://www.juliebender.com/gallery.html (unique woodburning art) http://www.martiadrian.com/EquineArt.htm (check out her "Four Seasons" print series) http://www.spottedponystudio.com/journeyponies.html (raku and other sculptures) http://www.horsecolor.info/BLEditions.htm (ceramic sculptures with personality) http://www.bravehorse.com/ (sculptures and prints) As you can probably tell, I'm a big fan of 3-D art, but there are plenty of paintings, drawings, and photograph artists to choose from as well. Have some fun this weekend! | | |
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Do you ever feel like you'd like to reach out and offer assistance to those in the world around you, but with so many charities and fundraisers out there, find it difficult to get started? I know I tend to go for the donations that are simple and small--aren't we all on a tight budget these days?--but offer some form of gratification. Here are two unique horse-related options that have come across my desk recently. One is simply a way to put what you have to good use; the other is a fun activity that also helps those in need. 1. The Rider's ClosetDo you have some old show clothes that just don't fit anymore, or are in good condition but just not quite what you want to wear? The Rider's Closet is a great way to put them to good use. Started by Georgina Bloomberg, this charity collects good quality used riding apparel and equipment and donates it to school riding programs and other places where it will be appreciated and put to good use. Donations are tax deductible, so you help yourself while benefiting others. To read more about Bloomberg and the Rider's Closet program's new website, click here or go straight to http://theriderscloset.org.
2. Runamuk Benefit Trail Ride
On June 28-29 in Roundup, Montana, the Runamuk Benefit Trail Ride offers camping, dancing, a horsemanship clinic, and--of course--the trail ride. Proceeds benefit the Chase Hawks Memorial Association, a non-profit organization that disburses funds to families in need whose difficulties are outside the scope of traditional aid. The evening activities include a live auction as well. For those unable to attend, you can still support the cause by buying raffle tickets. Click here to read more about the event and the charity it benefits.
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I was going to introduce you to a few of the people we met at the Lynden NWRCHA show recently, but unfortunately, I'm having some problems with the photo gallery. Instead, here's a sneak peek of what's inside the April issue of NWHS, due to hit the stands tomorrow!
Stout-hearted Teen Rodeo Queen
by Nicole Lanphear Local youth with cystic fibrosis lives her dream For many young girls, the sight of a smiling, curly-haired rodeo queen atop her prancing steed sparks the dream of one day becoming that queen. For Jennifer Stout, her first view of Kari Kondro, Miss Thunder Mountain Pro Rodeo, set her on the path to that dream. “Her first impression was that Kari was so outgoing,” says Stout’s mother, Dolores. “She was a very genuine person, and had not changed once she became a rodeo queen. Her genuine love for people touched and inspired Jenny.” On the path to reaching that goal, Stout had more hurdles than most girls her age. Now 16, Jenny Stout is one of 30,000 children and adults in the United States with cystic fibrosis , a genetic disease that affects the respiratory and digestive tracts and growth rate. Dreaming of Dash
Horse crazy from day one, Jenny and her mother were playing with searches on Dreamhorse.com one evening after a “girls night in” movie. They tried typing “wish” into the name search criteria and spent some time looking through horses with "wish" in their names. Afterward, a pop-up appeared on the screen for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Exploring the foundation’s website, they noticed it was not just for children who were going to die, but for anyone with life-threatening illnesses. After some hesitation, Jenny and Dolores entered their story. The next morning, Dolores was awakened by a phone call from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The woman on the other end of the line said Jenny sounded eligible for a wish and asked Dolores what Jenny would ask for. Dolores knew that Jenny, who was quickly outgrowing her 12 hand high pony, wanted a horse. The woman from Make-A-Wish explained that horse wishes were not taken lightly because of the vast amount of responsibility involved. But two weeks later, volunteers came out to visit with Jenny and find out what she would want.
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To learn more about Jenny and her quest for a horse and dream of being a rodeo queen, find the April issue at a feed store or other equine product distributor near you. Can't get NWHS in your area? Click here to subscribe.
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Happy Friday, everyone. As we put together the May issue to send off to the printer, we've come across an interesting question: What is it about a magazine cover that makes you want to pick it up? For this issue, we were able to take two cover options and show them around the Northwest Horse Fair and Expo to get readers' opinions. That isn't always an option, so we'd love to know what makes you look at the magazine rack and say "I need that magazine!" Is it a certain breed of horse? Majestic background scenery? Action shots? Horses with people? Horses without people? Do certain colors catch your eye? Let us know! You can either send an email to editor@nwhorsesource with the subject line "Cover Art," or reply in the comments below. I've taken the comment screening off this entry so you don't have to sign in or wait to see your comment appear below. Just click the "Tell us what you think" link and fill in the comment box! Also, special points go to anyone who can find me a set of horse mood emoticons that will work with livejournal. I'm sure I can come up with some sort of prize package! | | |
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The new rig
Setting up for the day
"Let's go already!"
