Happy Valentines Day SVDA!

Transcription

1 Page Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association Half-Halt The Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association Happy Valentines Day SVDA! February 2014 Volume 31, Issue II 2013 SVDA Fourth Level Schooling Shows Reserve Champion CONGRATULATIONS to Tina Bodnar and Chagall for their brilliant performance in SVDA Fourth Level Schooling Shows. Due to my error, they were not acknowledged at the February 1, 2014 Awards Banquet. My public apologies to Tina and congratulations to a magnificent team! Carol Gonyo Thanks Carol! And more SVDA Year End Awards info is in this newsletter.

2 Page 2 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association 2013 Board of Directors President: Kathy Rowse- Did you know Vice President: Robyn Nunnally- The new membership year started on December 1st. Have you rejoined? Secretary: Danielle Rowland- Treasurer: Shari Cutchin- Clinics and Programs: Janice Mumford- Awards Chair: Carol Gonyo- Juniors Chair: Tristin Butler- Licensed Show Chair: Donna Rowland- Membership Chair: Reeta Edmundson- Scholarship Chair: Sandy Johnson- Schooling Show Chair: Robin Jones - Ways and Means Chair: Grace Harrell Newsletter /Webmaster Chairs: Anna Schriebl- Quotable Quotes: You are not alone in the arena. God is watching how you treat your horse. Charles de Kunffy ""Many people most people 'talk the talk' but don't 'walk the walk' when it comes to ambition. Ambition means doing anything and everything it takes to reach your goal." George Morris The basic techniques, or what they call basics, are more difficult than what comes later this is the Trap of Dressage. Correct basics are more difficult than piaffe and passage Conrad Schumacher Your hands must live with the horse s mouth, therefore they should not be an unwelcome house guest. Yvonne Barteau Members at Large Mary Winchell, Julie Spencer & Tina Bodnar

3 Page 3 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association NEWSFLASHES! SVDA low cost clinics & VADA Events February 23 Free SVDA clinic on how to set up a dressage ring and score a dressage test. Free pizza! Just bring a drink and a chair. March 2 SVDA Low Cost Clinic with Tristin Hardy Butler, USDF Silver and Bronze Medalist and L Program Graduateat Bridlewood. Cost is $35. August 23 VADA Chapter Challenge Show at VA Horse Center, Lexington, VA September 6-7 VADA Sponsored George Williams Clinic, Up Through the Levels at the VHC East Complex. Look for more info on the VADA web site. A new feature is coming to your SVDA newsletter! We would like to highlight the local barns in the area where SVDA members train and board. Would you like to have a visit from our intrepid reporter to show off your barn or farm? patriotfarm@wildblue.net to get your visit scheduled!

4 Page 4 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association Scenes from the SVDA Banquet Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make it a success!

5 Page 5 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING INTRODUCTORY LEVEL 5th General George Wendy Murray (no C) 4th Bella Mia Ava Neff 3rd Midnight Moon Hannah Foote Reserve Cherokee Night Caitlin Couch Champion Prowler Champion Savannah Rose Savannah Dodge 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING TRAINING LEVEL JUNIOR 4th Trevo Savannah Dodge (no T3) Bella Mia Ava Neff 3th Reserve Cadet Katie Bruns Champion Champion Neverland Anna Curran 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING TRAINING LEVEL SENIORS Reserve Wichita II Jennifer Torres Champion Champion Wichita II Carol Gonyo

6 Page SVDA SCHOOLING FIRST LEVEL JUNIORS Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association 4 th Cadet Katie Bruns 3rd Trevo Anna Curran Reserve Cassuccino Savannah Dodge Champion Champion Kerry Dancer Beth Curran 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING FIRST LEVEL SENIORS 3rd Strehla Toni Meranda Reserve Cassidy Robyn Nunnally Champion Champion Roxann Margaret Little 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING SECOND LEVEL Reserve Whirlwind Nancy Pettet Champion Champion Cassidy Robyn Nunnally 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING THIRD LEVEL Reserve The Highlander Sarah Miller Champion Champion Action Ace Mary Winchell

7 Page 7 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING FOURTH LEVEL Reserve Chagall Tina Bodnar Champion Champion Alexander the Great Sarah Miller 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING WESTERN DRESSAGE & GAITED GROUPS 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING MUSICAL FREESTYLE TRAINING LEVEL JUN- IOR 3rd SAA Melody Katharine Owens Reserve 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING MUSICAL FREESTYLE TRAINING LEVEL SEN- Champion SF Annarosa Nancy Slack Champion ML Plum Precious Katharine Owens 3 rd Midnight Hannah Foote Reserve Champion Neverland Anna Curran Champion Trevo Savannah Dodge IOR Champion Wichita II Jennifer Torres

8 Page 8 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING MUSICAL FREESTYLE FIRST LEVEL JUNIOR Champion Kerry Dancer Beth Curran 2013 SVDA SCHOOLNG MUSICAL FREESTYLE SECOND LEVEL Champion Whirlwind Nancy Pettet 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING MUSICAL FREESTYLE THIRD LEVEL Champion Alexander the Great Sarah Miller 2013 SVDA SCHOOLING SHOW HIGH POINT PEWTER AWARD - for highest single schooling show score in in Training Level, test 1 Fuego Hannah Foote VOTED SPECIAL AWARDS Excellence in Sportsmanship Award (voted by SVDA Membership) 2013 winner: KATIE LANG Most Improver Rider (voted by SVDA membership) 2013 winner NANCY PETTET

9 Page 9 Half-Halt Newsletter of the Southeast Virginia Dressage Association Robert Snyder Memorial Award: Volunteer of the Year (Voted by Board Members) 2013 winner ELIZABETH SMITH SPECIAL AWARDS Oak Haven Horizon Perpetual Award (highest average in any level in 1 st riding with SVDA) year 2013 WINNER % average in Intro Level, Savannah Dodge & Savannah Rose Captain Andrew DeSzinay Trophy Award (Junior/Young Rider Single High Point Award) 2013 winner % Training 1, Hannah Foote on Fuego ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 2013: (Four tests at a minimum score) TRAINING LEVEL TESTS 1 & 2 four scores of 60% or better same rider & horse combination 1. Katie Bruns 2. Savannah Dodge 3. Carol Gonyo TRAINING LEVEL TESTS 3 four scores of 60% or better same rider & horse combination 1. Katie Bruns

10 Page 10 FIRST LEVEL TESTS 1 & 2 four scores of 60% or better same rider & horse combination FIRST LEVEL TEST 3 four scores of 60% or better same rider & horse combination SECOND LEVEL four scores of 58% or better same rider & horse combination 1. Robyn Nunnally 2. Nancy Pettet THIRD LEVEL four scores of 58% or better same rider & horse combination 1. Sarah Miller FOURTH LEVEL four scores of 58% or better same rider & horse combination 1. Sarah Miller INTERMEDIATE - 1 four scores of 58% or better same rider & horse combination 1. Gabrielle Fleming 2013 SVDA MEDAL AWARDS: BRONZE (Training &/or First Levels) 4 scores of 60% or higher from 4 different judges, at 4 different shows, 2 of which must be recognized shows. This is a rider only award. KATIE BRUNS ROBYN NUNNALLY

11 Page 11 LICENSED SHOW AWARDS 2013 SVDA LICENSED MFS USEF Second Level Champion MFS 2 Whirlwind Nancy Pettet 2013 SVDA LICENSED MFS USEF Fourth Level Reserve Naguchi Tristin Hardy Butler Champion MFS 4 Champion MFS 4 Dansant Jessica Zoskey 2013 SVDA LICENSED TRAINING LEVEL JUNIOR Champion Cadet Katie Bruns 2013 SVDA LICENSED TRAINING LEVEL SENIOR Champion Tessa Make De Vries Rebecca Vick 2013 SVDA LICENSED FIRST LEVEL Champion Roxann Margaret Little

12 Page SVDA LICENSED SECOND LEVEL Champion Whirlwind Nancy Pettet 2013 SVDA LICENSED THIRD LEVEL Vintage Reserve The Highlander Sarah Miller Champion Champion Alexander Sarah Miller 2013 SVDA LICENSED THIRD LEVEL Senior Reserve Action Ace Jessica Zoskey Champion Champion Action Ace Danielle Rowland 2013 SVDA LICENSED FOURTH LEVEL 3 rd Naguchi Tristin Hardy Butler Reserve Dansant Jessica Zoskey Champion Champion Dexter Jessica Zoskey

13 Page SVDA LICENSED PSG Naguchi Tristin Hardy Butler Rioja Reserva Gabrielle Fleming 3 rd Dexter Jessica Zoskey Reserve Fenix Danielle Rowand Champion Champion Dansant Jessica Zoskey 2013 SVDA INTERMEDIATE Reserve Rioja Reserva Gabrielle Fleming Champion Champion Fenix Danielle Rowand I-2

14 Page 14 Update from the Virginia Horse Center Foundation by Gardy Bloemers, Board Member 1/6/2014 As you may be aware, the Virginia Horse Center Foundation (VHCF), which owns the Virginia Horse Center facility in Lexington, Virginia has been the subject of negative publicity in a number of regional newspapers and been the subject of much rumor and speculation surrounding a possible bankruptcy. At our last VADA conference call, I shared an update with participants in the call and subsequently agreed to put together something in writing, which could be shared with our VADA members across the state. At that time, I had schedule to meet with the Board of Supervisors in Lexington the following week and did do so. While I think they will consider the possibility of increasing their lodging tax for the benefit of the Virginia Horse Center, this is by no means a done deal. Public opinion locally is somewhat divided. The Horse Center is not necessarily seen by a benefit to all, and in particular many locals are convinced that the Horse Center s presence has negatively impacted their taxes by inflating their property values. In addition, it is not clear to everyone that the VHC s users are responsible for dropping as much cash as the VHC makes out that they do. There will be a public hearing early in 2014 but there is no date set yet for that. It may make sense for a few key members of VADA to be present and to speak at this event. WHAT CAN YOU DO? After reading the key information I ve shared in the next part of this document, it would be great if you could get together with your Chapter Presidents and identify clearly where you spend your $ in Lexington and how often you come and anything else you think might be important and send an to each one of the Board of Supervisors detailing this information that would be great. Clearly the Supervisors are politicians and are not elected by you unless you live in the area. However, I think it will be interesting for them to hear where you shop, where you sleep and what you do when you are in Lexington? Do your friends and family also come to Lexington? What do they do when they are there other than watch you of course? If you d like to send me a draft of your Chapter Letter prior to sending it to the Supervisors, I d be happy to do so. Below please find a list of each one of the Supervisors and their contact information below. Buffalo: John M. Higgins, 131 Moores School Ln, Lexington, VA 24450, Cell , buffalosupervisor@yahoo.com Kerrs Creek:: Russell S. Ford, 686 Enfield Rd, PO Box 1407, Lexington VA 24450, Home rford@rockbridge.net Natural Bridge: David W. Hinty, Jr, 933 Falling Spring Road, Glasgow, VA 24555, Cell david.hinty@yahoo.com South River: Ronnie R. Campbell, 127 Tem Lane, Raphine, VA 24472, Home , southriversupervisor@yahoo.com Walkers Creek: Albert W. Lewis Jr., 16 McCurdy Ln, Rockbridge Baths VA 24473, Home buster@mountainviewfarm.biz

15 Page 15 Another action is to contact your delegate in the Virginia House of Representatives and your Senator in the Virginia State Senate to let them know that you are a big supporter of equine business in the State of Virginia and that although you are aware the Commonwealth does not support the facility financially, you would like to ask your delegate to understand the value of the facility to you and to the state as a whole. You could let them know that in 2012, the State of Virginia received total tax revenue of $1.25 Million based on equi-tourism in Rockbridge County and you want to find out how he/she can help make sure that the facility gets the support it needs, whether from Rockbridge County or from the USDA to get the loan to a reasonable level that can be supported by the facility, not cripple the facility. The best way to find out who these individuals are (I assume you do know that) and how to contact them is to go to HERE S SOME KEY INFORMATION I WANT TO SHARE WITH YOU: GENERAL FACTS: The Virginia Horse Center Foundation is currently a not for profit and has 501(c)3 status. The VHC is currently 27 years old; construction started on the facility back in The facility sits on a total of 600 acres. Up until 2007, the facility operated as a public private partnership, and was partially owned and funded by the State of Virginia. In 2007, the Virginia Horse Center Foundation purchased the facility from the Commonwealth of Virginia and all financial support from the State ceased. Although the focus of the VHCF is to provide a facility to hold equestrian competitions and other educational events across a myriad of equine disciplines, the facility does also host a variety of other complimentary events at the site, such as Dog Agility Trials, as well as a number of events held free of charge which largely serve the local Rockbridge community, such as the Rockbridge County Fair and Farm Show, the Rockbridge Farmer s Market, Chamber Business After Hours and the Farm Bureau Annual Dinner to name a few. In 2013, VHC hosted FINANCIAL FACTS: 85 equine events 10 non-equine related events 76+ community related events Back in 2007, when the VHCF purchased the Horse Center from the State, they did so with a $11.5 Million loan secured by the facility. This loan was made to the VHCF by the USDA (US Department of Agriculture). The loan is a USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Loan and for the first three years of its existence, was interest only. Starting in 2010 the loan payment had to consist of both interest and principal and is an approximate annual payment of $605,000. The loan is a 40 year term with interest of 4.125%. For the first three years the interest only payment was met. Since both interest and principal became due, the facility has been short each year by about $150,000, thus causing the VHCF to access its debt reserves to meet the shortfall. At this time the debt reserves have been fully exhausted and we will again be short to meet the $605,000 payment due in February Since 2008, the facility has struggled through the devastating impacts of our recent economic recession, which have resulted in lower revenues from the shows that the facility runs, cancellations from outside shows and of course less donations from private individuals as well as fewer corporate advertisers and sponsors. In addition, don t forget the facility is aging and maintenance is a concern and a real need after 27 years. Lighting was replaced in the main Coliseum last year, the footing in the Wiley was upgraded, but much remains to be done. The big focus in 2014, is the need to repaint all of the roofs on the buildings at the facility. The VHCF had annual expenses of $4.6 Million (June 12-June13) including interest payments on debt with annual revenues of $4 Million. This represents a shortfall of about $600,000. During the previous fiscal year, the VHCF experienced a shortfall of about $700,000. Thanks to a number of key individual donors and families and because of the efforts of all of the VHCF staff, the doors have been kept open to date. For these people, I am truly grateful.

16 Page 16 WHAT TO DO ABOUT THIS SITUATION? VHCF Staff: Since our Regional Championships, staff have taken a 20% pay-cut and are working 3 days a week from the Horse Center and 2 days a week from home. There is no more room to cut these folks compensation and they are already doing everything they can to help their employer, the VHCF, get through this difficult period. Fundraising from Individuals and Corporate Sponsors and Advertisers: Joe Hagy at the VHCF has the responsibility to generate $ from these activities. Clearly as individuals we can make contributions, restricted or unrestricted. If you or someone you know has an interest to make a tax deductible donation and/or is interested to learn about sponsorship or advertising opportunities, the person to contact is Joe or me, Gardy, and I ll get you in touch with him. A few individuals suggested holding an Online Auction to benefit the VHCF and Debbie DelGiorno from Region 1 offered to assist with setting this up from a technology perspective. If there is anyone that would be willing to head up this effort, please let me know. The JR/YR in our Region, have had lots of success with this and had many great trainers donate lessons or judges donate some of their time, etc. etc. There was another suggestion to hold a big clinic at the facility and donate the proceeds of the clinic to the VHCF. Again, we would need a few folks to spear head this and it is likely that this is something that would not be able to happen until Other ideas are welcome and please contact me or a VADA Board member to share them. VHCF Management and Board Explore Increase of Lodging Tax with Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors: Some of you may know that at the same time the VHC became private in 2007, a lodging tax was established in Rockbridge, which is currently at 6% and is paid by users of the hotels in the area. Currently 2% of this tax is paid to the VHCF to assist with its annual debt service needs to pay the USDA loan. In 2012, this 2% = $470,000 for the Horse Center. There is a possibility to increase the tax to 7% and these matters are being discussed with the local authorities. FYI Total Hotel Revenues for 2012 for Rockbridge = $23.5 Million with Total Sales and Lodging Tax = $ 2.6 Million Right before Christmas, I together with the President of the Board and the Executive Director, met with local authorities to discuss this possibility in preparation for a public hearing in early We conveyed to these folks a similar message to the one above but let them know that VHC is an extremely valuable asset to them as it is unique in the State and a real asset to the greater Mid- Atlantic. As there are fewer and fewer facilities out there that can hold big shows like the VHC does, they have somewhat of a monopoly, which is of course a real business opportunity and should represent real $ to them. Users of the VHC not only stay in hotels, but use the gas stations (to fill up our gas/diesel guzzling trucks), eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, shop at Walmart, etc. etc. We our equi-tourists and a visit to the VHC is the highlight of many folks competitive year. We drop $ and then leave and don t use the local infrastructure or need it. Other Options under Consideration: The VHCF Management and Board is considering a number of other options to help generate additional revenues. These are likely to include increasing stall rental fees to show managers, which are relatively cheap compared to other venues around the State. There will also be another review of the calendar and identification of opportunities to increase in-house show profitability. In addition to these items, we will explore the possibility of placing a conservation easement on the land we own (a total of 600 acres) now that we have learned that this may now be permitted by the USDA as the holder of our mortgage. In the past, it was not. This is meaningful and represents potential revenue of $ 1 Million.

17 Page SVDA Schooling Show Dates Date Location Opening Closing Judge 3/8 Bob Martin Ag Ctr (Sanctioned) Now 2/14 Robin Brueckmann (S) 3/23 Transitions (Windsor) 2/24 3/10 Sandy Johnson (L) 4/6 Princess Anne Farm 3/10 3/24 Janice Mumford (L) 5/25 Bridlewood (Waverly) 28/4 5/12 TBA 6/22 Bridlewood Estates (Suffolk) 26/5 6/9 TBA 7/6 Terra Ceia 6/9 6/23 TBA 7/12 Bob Martin Ag Ctr (Sanctioned) TBA 25/8 TBA 9/21 September Sterling Meadows 25/8 15/9 TBA 10/12 Merry Oaks Stables (Windsor) 15/9 29/9 Helen George ( r ) 15/11 Bob Martin Ag Ctr (Sanctioned) TBA 27/10 TBA

18 Page 18 My Clinic Experiences By Katie Lang I was lucky to be awarded the SVDA scholarship to attend several clinics with Jim Koford and Julio Mendoza. The biggest thing I learned was that I have a lot to learn! It is simply amazing that riders in our area are able to attend clinics put on by such well-known and knowledgeable clinicians. Their expertise and ability to convey information is wonderful. Most importantly, their desire to help a rider overcome roadblocks in training is inspiring. I had several light bulb moments while riding with these two gifted instructors and it has helped me advance my riding skills. Julio Mendoza is very intense and focused. He immediately pinpoints movements that can be done better and focuses on correcting the basics. It is clear that he feels that spending time to learn the basics well pays off in the long run. I have a tendency to ride with my legs behind the girth which causes me to not be balanced on my seat bone. He spent time explaining the reason for proper leg position and how it impacts the ability to sit the trot. He kept after me until I corrected this problem. Once I focused on that simple thing my sitting trot greatly improved and I was able to get around the ring in a sitting trot without feeling like a sack of potatoes. Jim Koford has eagle eyes. He watches a rider for several minutes at the beginning of a ride and maps out a whole plan for instruction for the duration of the lesson. He is a genius at seeing a training path forward for that particular rider. When I rode he immediately knew that I was interfering too much in my riding and giving confusing signals and aids to my horse. He stressed the need for me to become a minimalist in my riding. He indicated that the best riders do not restrict their horses movements but rather allow their horses the freedom to fully achieve the movement. I am nowhere near the level of minimalist I should be yet, but even my small baby steps in this direction have yielded great results. Concisely put, focusing on learning the basics really well and trying to becoming a minimalist in my riding were two big light bulb moments for me. I wish to express my sincere appreciation to SVDA for providing the scholarship so I could attend these fabulous clinics!

19 Page 19 Special Horse Organization Winners Program (SHOW) Southern States has a program to help non-profit horse associations and clubs have their own sponsorship tool. In order for our club to benefit, we need proof of purchase seals from Southern States, Legends and Triple Crown feed bags. If you are willing to help or have a neighbor or friend that is willing to provide their feedbag seals, please contact Mary Winchell at ambeholdin@verizon.net SVDA Member-Sponsored Events 7&8 March Julio Mendoz Clinic at Silverleaf Contact: krowse@verizon.net TBD Carla Symander Clinics Contact: terri.morgan@charter.net

20 Page SVDA Junior/Young Rider USDF Region 1 Team Championship Information Who can participate: Fun, fun and more and more fun!!! The Junior/Young Rider Region 1 Team Championships are open to all USDF Region 1 members who turn 21 or under (in the year of 2014) who would like to participate. Your SVDA membership gives you a qualifying USDF affiliate membership. Benefits of the SVDA sponsored team: You may be eligible for all or part of the costs of entries and stabling to be paid (fundraising!) You may receive a Team polo shirt and saddle pad, and possibly polo wraps (fundraising!) You get to have fun with the other members with decorations, costumes and team spirit You will stable with other participating SVDA members You will receive assistance and coaching at the competition and assistance with entries Possible hauling arrangements with other SVDA members or Tristin (share costs) You may be eligible for other planned activities such as a low cost clinics Scores can be counted towards SVDA schooling show year end awards To participate as part of the SVDA team you must: Be a current 2014 SVDA member (go to for information) Participate in the fundraising (approximately $425 per rider) (or can pay for your own costs outright) Let Tristin Hardy Butler know of your interest as soon as possible (see intent form) Have at least 4 volunteer hours completed or committed by July 1 st for SVDA see Robyn Nunnally at to sign up Be able to competently ride dressage Intro tests or higher (through FEI) NOTE: You must have your volunteer hours and fundraising committed prior to mailing entries in June. Contact Robyn Nunnally to volunteer or ask Tristin for details. July Team Championship Show Should be July 25 th -27 th Friday travel to Morven Park in Leesburg, VA Saturday and Sunday competition. Sunday awards ceremonies. Please contact me with any questions Thank you! Tristin Hardy Butler cell tristin@elfenridge.com

21 Page 21 SVDA 2014 Junior/Young Rider Region 1 Championship Team Intent Form Please fill out and return NO LATER THAN April 1, 2014 To: Tristin Hardy Butler, mail: 1106 Mill Pond Ct, Suffolk, VA 23434, (757) phone, (888) fax You can type the information into an and send to: Tristin@elfenridge.com Or drop off at Bridlewood Estates, 2601 Nansemond Pkwy, Suffolk, VA Rider Name: Horse s Name: Rider Date of Birth: Parent(s) Name: Parent Home Phone: Cell: Rider Phone: Parent Rider Rider Shirt Size: If possible, I would like to be on a team with: This information will help to plan for fundraising, making the teams, and make sure you receive important information. Changes can be made until entries are due. Please contact Tristin for updates, information, assistance or questions. Level and Tests at which you are currently competing Also note if you would like to perform a musical Freestyle or Quadrille? Please get with Tristin as soon as possible to make necessary arrangements. Fundraising: I intend to participate or have already participated in 2013 Rider fundraising activities (required). (approximately $400 needed per rider) (You may also participate without fundraising and pay your own fees) Fundraising activities participating in: Contact Tristin for availabilities. We need ideas!!! Volunteering: I intend to volunteer at least 4 hours before July (required) and have the hours completed or committed by June30th. Volunteering Completed or Scheduled On: or let Tristin know when scheduled. Volunteering is scheduled through Robyn Nunnally, see the SVDA website at Rider Please Sign and Date: Parent Please Sign and Date:

22 Page 22 SVDA Steel Magnolia Winnie Maddock Baldwin Memorial Award Win- Janice Mumford Comments from Marylyn Leonard: I met this wonderful lady over 20 years ago when she, as many of us have, began her dressage career at our SVDA Schooling Shows at Intro level. She had already shown many times in several other disciplines but decided to focus on Dressage and focus she did! She is capable of riding up to Gran prix and is able to select and to breed to achieve that quality of horse. Along the way, she has found the time to share that knowledge by teaching lessons and answering questions from those who seek her advice. Additionally, she is a very capable, qualified Dressage judge. And, often, she judges open shows as well! She has helped me on a number of occasions, and many others as well. Even though we don t see each other often anymore, I know we will always be friends and, if I ever need her, she ll be there for me and many of you as well! I know of no one more deserving of this award. I only hope that she will feel half as honored as I was and continue to be as the fortunate recipient. With much Love, Devotion, and Respect, Marylyn

23 Page 23 Comments from Kathy Rowse: Our 2013 winner has been a member of the SVDA board in several capacities for many years including serving as the SVDA President for 2 years. She never blows her own horn, she is always a behind the scenes type of gal, but contributing in major ways. Her quiet insistence and persistence gains her many accomplishments without necessarily a lot of accolades. This person took over the SVDA presidency during a crucial period and always developed stability and cooperation amongst all committee members. She continues to chair our most important educational committee that of Clinics and Programs and quietly always coordinates an excellent educational year for SVDA. With SVDA, this person has always been the model of professionalism and efficiency. Often when people watch this person ride her Dexter S the first comment they make is I never knew she was such a lovely rider! This person never blows her own horn over anything but the fact is that she is a lovely rider with great feel and who has successfully competed through Intemediare I. She achieved her USDF L certification during the L program s infancy which was when it was the most difficult and is a popular judge, teacher and clinician. This person admits that she has a special love for her adult amateurs and that she doesn t want to see anyone get hurt on her watch! She not only judges dressage schooling shows in both Va and NC but is also a popular open show judge! She wears many hats! This person is always cheerful and helpful; I ve never known her to turn down a request. She teaches her own students and constantly subs in at Silverleaf Farm on weekends. Did I mention she has a real job as the office manager of a major brick/stone company? To do all this, I always marvel at how efficient and positive This person remains no matter what hits her each day her favorite saying is It s another day in Paradise! Although this person would never say its special her husband would. She is a world class baker. Including making her own crusts from SCRATCH! From apple pie to light fluffy pumpkin tortes and her famous brownies, Mike and I have been privileged to enjoy many of her creations! When I am enjoying some of her many delightful desserts with a blissful smile she humbling tells me that it s just something she threw together. Yummm we ll take your thrown togethers anytime! This person has an expert understanding of Hanoverian bloodlines and willingly shares her expertise with many who seek it. She has researched and found horses for those searching, never for a commission but always because she genuinely cares that people find a good match. This Person has also bred 2 lovely young Hanoverians that she is raising for their owners. As a teacher, this person has started many AA and Juniors including Katie Lang and Cathy Lombardi and helps them grow in skill and confidence. She once said to me Thank you for encouraging me to start teaching it is so rewarding to see how happy the riders are after a successful lesson! No it s truly OUR blessing in the Tidewater area the This Person is teaching, judging, and developing and encouraging a whole new set of riders. This Person is truly an unsung hero and I am hopeful that she will be recognized through the Steel Magnolia Award.

24 Page 24 This is an SVDA-sanctioned show.

25 Page 25 Volunteer Hours 2014 SVDA members please check your volunteer hours carefully and report any discrepancies to Robyn Nunnally immediately TOTAL Tristin Hardy Butler 8 Shari Cutchin 8 Reeta Edmondson 8 Carol Gonyo 8 Sandy Johnson 16 Robin Jones 8 Janice Mumford 8 Wendy Murray 8 Robyn Nunnally 16 Beth Rippel 8 Danielle Rowland 8 Donna Rowland 8 Kathy Rowse 8 Anna Schriebl 8 Julie Spencer 8 Grace Williams 8 Mary Winchell 8

26 Page 26 SVDA Board Meeting Minutes December 16, 2013 Members in attendance: Kathy Rowse, Donna Rowland, Sherri Cutchin, Janice Munford, Robyn Nunnally, Carol Gonyo, Tristin Hardy, Sandy Johnson, Anna Schriebl, Grace Williams, Mary Winchell, Tina Bodnar, Julie Spencer, Danielle Rowland, Frank Bruns I. Call to order President Kathy Rowse called to order the meeting at 7pm, December 16, 2013 via Teleconference. Kathy gave brief synopsis of the USDF convention she attended. Western Dressage was much of the discussion and she also talked about how the rider test could be expanded. II. Approval of minutes from last meeting Minutes from the September board meeting and October general membership meeting were presented. Motion to approve minutes Robyn, Mary 2 nd All approved. Passed III. Actions Taken Between Meetings IV> Officer Reports 1. Vice President: Robyn Nunnally reported no activity at the moment. 2. Treasurer: Shari reported balance in the treasurery is $27, VADA Rep: Robyn sent out the minutes from the latest VADA meeting. The banquet reservation form is on the VADA website and I also sent it to Anna to put in our next newsletter, along with forms to submit with any silent auction donations. VADA is not doing Chapter Basket auctions anymore. Kathy asked about what awards VADA might go with. VADA has BLM s next year. New business There are some minor updates to be made in the membership manual. (Nothing requiring voting or change of bylaws, just some clarifications.) I will get up with Sandy Johnson to review these changes and submit them to Wendy to update the website. V. Old Business: none reported VI. Committee Reports 1. Recognize Show: Donna Rowland no new news.

27 Page Schooling Shows: Robyn reported Joann Hodeen at Transitions is hosting on March 23rd. Requires our letters and a Portapotty. Mary Winchell will host at her farm on May 25th and just needs paper towels and toilet paper. We will forgo an August schooling show. Karen at Marturia has declined to host our championship show. However, Sonja Rueter at Merry Oaks has agreed to do it on October 12th. All other dates and locations are pending return phone calls. Will follow up this week. Yolanda has not called Robin back yet. Tristin may be having hers in June. Kathy suggested we fill August in case we have to cancel an earlier show so it is on the calender. Kathy sent dates to advoid for upcoming major shows. Any date in August seems to be good; not concerned about Pinehurst show. A call is in to Princess Ann but have not heard back. Kathy Western Dressage separate for Morgan s & Arabians. This year we went with Northern Western Dressage Association. Kathy suggests we go with whatever VADA goes with. Members who are Western Dressage do not have a preference. Do we need to rewrite end of year awards & championship show change to make sure Western Dressage riders know what they are? Janice motioned, Robyn 2 nd to follow the guidlines of the Western Dressage Association that VADA decides to follow. Membership manual Robyn will change it. Will also change for Award Banquet 3. Awards: Mary Winchell reported: Donna Rowland and I met with Courtney Thompson (Catering sales manager) at the Hilton Garden Inn. We went over the menu deciding on Vegetable Lasagna and Chicken Parmesan. I ask if the Chef would chose choice of vegetable & choice of a starch to go with the main dishes. The table clothes will be the SVDA blue & napkins will have a pop of color. The decorations they have, do not go with our 50's theme. Do we have any suggestions? There will be a dance floor and plenty of tables for auction items & for Carol's setup for the slide show. One wired microphone & podium. There will be a check in table before you enter the room and the food will be set up on the outside of the room one door to enter the line & another door to return to your table. Courtney would check to see what time Carol & help would be able to come in to set up the awards. She did say that 3:30(maybe earlier) should work, but she wanted to check the schedule. Cash bar will be inside the room, she wanted to know if there was any request on a type of wine or beer? I think that covers what I talked with Courtney about during our meeting. Also, Donna has a report on our meeting. Donna Rowland reported: As Mary stated in her report, we met with Courtney at the Hilton Garden Inn. The room is large and very accommodating to our needs; believe everyone will be happy with it.

28 Page 28 Donna has requested a room for the evening of the event for herself. Courtney went ahead and set aside 5 guestrooms in their system for our banquet in case anyone needs to make a night of it or drive in from out of town. Anyone who needs reservations can call into the front desk and refer to the event name "SVDA" in order to receive the discounted rate of $ This rate is available until January 10th. After that date guests can still make reservations but will need to do so at our best available rate. Some decorations can be put up if we choose on the wall with Velcro (I have) and Donna is planning on blowing some things up on our plotter at work for this purpose. The center pieces they have available for us to use, as Mary said, don t really go with our theme, so we are open to suggestions. Donna has to date received 2 reservation forms along with their checks (Thank you, Kathy and Robyn). Donna is prepared to be bombarded soon by others Carol Gonyo reported: reminded board members and regular members about the Volunteer of Year and Most Improved Rider & Sportsmanship Awards. Anyone can send in an application for the Steel Magnolia Award (Kathy & Marylyn already have gotten it). Robyn will send out the 2013 points for Volunteers to board members so we have a list. Carol will compile votes and handle volunteers for banquet. Mary Winchell discussion about banquet. Anna did not get in the newsletter the Awards Banquet Reservation form due to information getting to her after the deadline. Tristin will bring the sound system for music. Donna mentioned about rooms available at the hotel at a reduced rate of $99 until Jan 10, then after that rate will be at the best they have. Board members/volunteers will be able to get in by 3:30 (maybe even earlier) for set up. Mary, Carol and Donna will handle set up Kathy will do decorations. Need to get room rate in newsletter. 4. Juniors: Tristin already getting things for the silent auction. Carol to handle vollunteers for banquet Tristin to send her names. 5. Membership: Reeta sent in latest membership roster. 6. Clinics and Programs: Janice reported: 1/19 Low cost clinic with Danielle Rowland at Silverleaf Farm. Her charge $30 making the student price is $35 which will off set insurance. Clinic date & place TBA for clinic: How to set up a dressage ring and score test. Mike Winchell will do a demo on how to set up a school show ring. Robyn will explain how show secretaries score tests. The purpose of this clinic is to educate members on two important volunteer jobs that are difficult to fill due to lack of knowledge. I want to incorporate a pizza party to enhance member participation.

29 Page 29 Spring SVDA clinic with Debbie Rodrigue date TBA. Saturday will be held at Silverleaf and Sunday at Bridlewood Farm Suffolk. Debbie's cost is $75 and I purpose $55 for members $75 for nonmembers. She requires a least of 8 riders per day and will do a maximum 12 rides per day. VA Beach clinics do not fill as well as Suffolk clinics. Janice is waiting on schooling show dates to book this clinic. Beth told Kathy we will be getting $900 from VADA vs the $600 we used to get to go toward clinics. ***Janice recommends SVDA supports Western Dressage Association of America since USEF now stands behind this association. 7. Scholarship/Foundation Fund: Sandy reported coming up on new year for scholarships & foundation fund. Applications need to get in. Only one person had it this year due to only 1 submission (Katie Lang) 8. Ways and Means: Mary Winchell reported: S.H.O.W. Program report I have turned in 215 proof of purchase seals which added up to $ Our total amount we have in the program is $ Grace reported: For ways and means, the wrapping paper fundraiser was not as successful as last year, SVDA only raised about $55 this year. Grace suggested it start earlier some said it used to start end Aug/1 st Sept. Will do flower power in spring. She is looking into other ideas that perhaps more people would be interested in. Grace reported that she is also looking for possibly another company to do polo shirts, broken arrow is constantly changing their quotes and rules for ordering sizes and colors. Any suggestions? Tristin reported that Juniors usually get higher priced shirts (wicked away ones) and get embrodiered and generally runs ~$32/shirt. Wendy has digital image of our logo (they believe) Sandy is asking; and 4Imprint has our logo for the stemless wine glasses that SVDA gets for show awards. I'm trying to find a company who will do each polo for around $20 or less so we can make this a fundraiser as well. 9. Newsletter: Anna Schriebl asks that members get newletter information in early. BEFORE 25 th of each month (earlier is preferable). 10. Website: No report about website. Board asked Wendy to send out a blast about banquet and rooms. Donna will update flier to include about rooms being available and silent auction.

30 Page 30 VII. New Business: none reported VIII. Adjournment Janice asked for schooling show dates from Robin Jones. Kathy adjourned the meeting. Next meeting will be on February 24th 2014 at 7pm, unless a meeting is necessary on January 13th, Minutes submitted by: Danielle Rowland, Secretary

31 Page 31 A Thank You Many thanks to all the people that helped us get home safely. On February 10th Susie Cain and I headed home to the Eastern Shore from a training session at Kathy Rowse s Silverleaf Farm. We were on I-64 near Route 17 when an SUV frantically waved us off the road. Our trailer tire was burning up and smoke was billowing. We let the tire cool for a few minutes then crept off the exit to Route 17. We ended up at Chesapeake Fire Station 8. As soon as we pulled in the drive a fire truck pulled in behind us. They had been looking for us on the highway. These firemen were amazing. They were with us from 2pm until 8 pm, helping us unload horses from one trailer to another and contacting Portsmouth Trailer Company on how to proceed. They dealt with two very frazzled women, two high strung 1500 lb horses and a lot of commotion. They handled themselves with such calm and professionalism. Many thanks to these firemen, to Dr. Posey McGurn, who stayed in touch with us by text with instructions for tranquilizing the horses and to Portsmouth Trailer Company. We arrived home safely on the Eastern Shore at 10pm grateful for such wonderful assistance from so many. Maureen Lawrence and Susie Cain. Tristin Hardy Butler Receives VADA Award I am honored to be awarded Trainer of the Year for 2013 by The Virginia Dressage Association (VADA), a member of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF). My students had the highest average for schooling and licensed shows last year! And, we had so much fun along the way... I have the best students and clients, whether they show or not, I love my job!! Thank you everyone! (From awards banquet: Anna Curran, Savannah Dodge, Tristin Hardy Butler, Hannah Rene Foote, Jennifer Torres, Sarah Miller, Ava Neff, Beth Curran, Nancy Pettet)

32 Page 32 Pferdechen Tip: Use a large fishing net (the one with a medal frame) for scooping out ice chunks from your horses water troughs. Use a small one for the buckets. The small one is also handy during the summer to clean stall buckets out, especially if you are at a barn that has water restrictions that keep you from dumping buckets on a regular basis.

33 Page 33 Start planning now to volunteer for club events. The year goes by so quickly and you ll need those volunteer hours not only for Year-End Awards but also to make this club a better one for everyone!

34 Page 34 Board Meeting Minutes (Teleconference) VADA January 16, 2014 Teleconference Board Members Present: Alison Head (NOVA), Alison Douglas (Central), Anne Draine (Central), Alison Thompson (Fredericksburg), Angie Stanaway (NEVADA), Sheli King (NOVA), Jessie Ginsburg (NOVA), Tracey Smith-Oliver (SWAVDA), Jane Palmer (SHENVADA), Beth Rippel (SE), Nancy Shaeffer (Central), Robyn Nunally (SVDA), Tina Longaker (C ville), Others- Melyni Worth (C ville) The meeting was called to order at 8:00 pm Minutes Motion to approve minutes from the last meeting was made by Anne Draine and seconded by Tina. Board Approved. Treasurer s report Combined balances are $ This includes the ribbon expense for the year end awards banquet but no other expenses or income from the event. George Williams Clinic- Nancy Lowey s update She has done a Save The Date ad for the Purple Book. Tina is putting additional info on the website. Demo riders need dvd to Nancy by July 15 th. DVD must show three gaits plus some work at the level requested. We can have 2 riders per lesson at each level up to 4 th level, but will only have one rider at FEI levels. Decisions will be made by the committee by August 15 th. Committee is made up of Nancy Lowey, Carter Bass and Alison Head. Will see if VHC food truck can do breakfast and lunch. Tina and Nancy will present a tied pricing structure for riders to the board at the next meeting. We will apply for USDF University credit for the clinic, which will cost those who want it an additional $5. BLM Nancy and Gardy will handle sponsor/vendors. VHC Update- Dianne will be attending a management meeting at VHC on Chapter Challenge- Sheli reported for the committee. Board voted that Margret Little is first choice for judge and Charlie Musco is second. Alison Douglas made the motion and it was seconded by Alison Thompson. There will be Western and Gaited Dressage as individual classes (no teams) but no Prix Caprilli. Banquet/Year End/Silent Auction-All awards and ribbons have been ordered Board- The attending board representatives voted on the 2014 VADA officers. The slate remains the same as New Business- Tina Longaker will be in charge of the Shel Gafford Award Program for Next meeting- Before Awards Banquet on February 9 th at 10:30 AM. Meeting was adjourned at 9:28 pm. Respectfully submitted, Alison Douglas

35 Page 35 Attention Western Dressage Riders! Starting 2014, the SVDA will be using the guidelines and tests of the WDAA. Please learn more by visiting the link below: Congratulations to the following National award winners with the Performance Horse Registry for horses bred in America: 3rd Level Freestyle RESERVE CHAMPION: Katie Lang and FA Patriot 4th Level RESERVE CHAMPION: Jessica Zoskey and Dexter S (Owner Janice Mumford) 3rd place: Jessica Zoskey and Dansant (Owner Kathy Rowse) Jr/YR 4th Level RESERVE CHAMPION: Katie Lang and FA Patriot 4th LL Freestyle CHAMPION: Jessica Zoskey and Dansant (owner Kathy Rowse) PRIX ST GEORGE CHAMPION: Jessica Zoskey and Dansant (Owner Kathy Rowse)

36 Page VADA Award Winners PLACE SCHOOLING SHOW INTRODUCTORY HORSE 1 Savannah Dodge Savannah Rose 2 Caitlin Couch Cherokee Night Prowler 3 Nikkolette Paxton Weltmacht 4 Hannah Foote Midnight Moon 5 Ava Neff Bella Mia 6 Laci Durvin Sip N Dots 7 Joshua Ibanez Daisy Rain 8 Madeline Moore Foxfire Muse 9 Laci Durvin Princess Zoey TRAINING 1 Katie Bruns Cadet 2 Anna Curran Neverland 3 Ava Neff Dear Prudence 4 Savannah Dodge Trevo 5 Theresa Markwalter Rattle N Snap Favorite 1ST LEVEL 1 Anna Curran Trevo 2 Savannah Dodge Cassuccino USDF MFS 1 Theresa Markwalter Rattle N Snap Favorite 2 Savannah Dodge Trevo 3 Anna Curran Neverland 4 Hannah Foote Midnight Moon 5 Beth Curran Kerry Dancer

37 Page 37 LICENSED SHOW JUN- TRAINING 1 Molly Ryan What's Up Doc 2 Katie Bruns Cadet 3 Lauren Victoria Rapp Dyblu Wildcard 1ST LEVEL 1 Molly Ryan Zan' Blue Frost 2 Allison Reichel Pippa 2ND LEVEL 1 Alexandra Jackson Bordeaux's Burgundy 3RD LEVEL 1 Megan Carpenter Anky Van Weltevreden USDF MUSICAL FREE- 1 Evan Coldiron Nils 2 Molly Ryan What's Up Doc FEI YOUNG RIDER/ 1 Megan Carpenter Anky Van Weltevreden 2 Jennifer Foulon Little Granny PRIX ST. GEORGES 1 Evan Coldiron Nils

38 Page 38 PLACE LICENSED SHOW SEN- TRAINING Horse 1 Cathy Scholten Casey 2 Lynn Jendrowski Diesel VT 3 Katie Bott Schigazzo 4 Kristen Brown Primrose LGF 5 Megan Irby Winslow SPF 6 Lynn Jendrowski Valsar 7 Jean Krason A Timeless Rendition 8 Amanda Harper Midsummer's Dream 9 Anita Scruggs Leviticus 10 Alison Thompson Commanders Eisenhower FIRST LEVEL 1 Donna Gatchell Fiero 2 Donna Gatchell Fabulous 3 Amy Chipman Sadira TWF 4 April Shultz Bellini SG 5 Lynn Jendrowski Titus 6 Lynn Jendrowski Partial Eclipse 7 Christina Arrington Decente HGF 8 Katherine Abrams Zan's Blue Frost 9 Robin Floyd No Royal Freckles 10 Ruth Vandelyn Beck Curiosa SECOND LEVEL 1 Torrey Wilkinson Talisman BHF 2 April Shultz Peony v. Falkenhurst 3 Susan Ralston Gabriel 4 Katie Bott Waps Serenade 5 Candy Allen Pajana vom Rosenhof 6 Christina Arrington CCS Arwen 7 Nancy Pettet Whirlwind

39 Page 39 3RD LEVEL 1 April Shultz Halifax Middelsom 2 Susan Ralston Gabriel 3 Kathryn Bennett Just Georgie 4 Jenny Spain Turnaround Tony 5 Torrey Wilkinson Talisman BHF 6 Amanda Harper Perfect Timing 7 Sarah Miller The Highlander 4th LEVEL 1 Jessica Zoskey Dexter S 2 Jessica Zoskey Dansant 3 Sonya Hunt Aliea 4 Wanda Escobar Marwick 5 Heidi Joi Gayle Something to Harbor 6 Tristin Hardy Butler Naguchi USDF MUSICAL FREE- 1 Jessica Zoskey Dansant 2 Christina Arrington Decente HGF 3 Sonya Hunt Aliea 4 Tristin Hardy Butler Naguchi 5 Nancy Pettet Whirlwind FEI MUSICAL FREE- 1 Cody Armstrong Shapiro Cody Armstrong Shapiro PRIX ST. GEORGES 1 Jessica Zoskey Dansant 2 Jessica Zoskey Dexter S 3 Tristin Hardy Butler Naguchi

40 Page 40 FEI GRAND PRIX & I 1 1 Cody Armstrong Shapiro 1 Cody Armstrong Shapiro FEI YOUNG HORSE 1 Amy Chipman Sadira TWF PLACE SHOOLING SHOW SEN- INTRODUCTORY HORSE 1 Muriel Nanninga Secret 2 Ruth Vandelyn Beck Silver's Destiny 3 Ruth Vandelyn Beck Mietta 4 Ann Wallace-Martin Ashes TRAINING 1 Cathy Scholten Casey 2 Laura Celia Dark Kiss 3 Beverley Thomas Fiero 4 Meredith Mcgrath Song Hit For Me 5 Ruth Vandelyn Beck Stormin' Norman 6 Anne Draine Satisfaction Guaranteed 7 Jennifer Torres Wichita II 8 Ruth Vandelyn Beck Curiosa 9 Kate Lepree Allegro 10 Angela Stanaway Joanie Loves Chachi

41 Page 41 FIRST LEVEL 1 Ruth Vandelyn Beck Curiosa 2 Cathy Scholten Apollo 3 Angela Stanaway Acropolis 4 Robin Floyd No Royal Freckles 5 Sharon Munroe Sirrius 6 Paige Nuckols Chianti 7 Robyn Nunnally Cassidy SECOND LEVEL 1 Candy Allen Pajana vom Rosenhof 2 Ann Wallace-Martin American Elegance 3 Nancy Pettet Whirlwind THIRD LEVEL 1 Candy Allen Ekke W van de Zwein- 2 Kathryn Bennett Just Georgie 3 Sarah Miller The Highlander FOURTH LEVEL 1 Candy Allen White Bacardi 2 Sarah Miller Alexander 3 Heidi Joi Gayle Something to Harbor USDF MFS 1 Candy Allen White Bacardi 2 Nancy Pettet Whirlwind 3 Sarah Miller Alexander 4 Jennifer Torres Wichita II PRIX ST. GEORGES 1 Candy Allen White Bacardi

42 Page 42 PLACE RIDER TESTS JUNIOR HORSE 1 Molly Ryan Whats's Up Doc 2 Lauren Victoria Rapp Dyblu Wildcard RIDER TESTS SENIOR HORSE 1 Melinda Freckleton Tenacity 2 Kate Lepree Allegro 3 Jean Krason A Timeless Rendition 4 Wyleng Liew Manitoba Crush N' Run TRAINER OF THE YEAR Tristin Hardy-Butler HIGH SCORE ADULT AMATEUR Cathy Scholten BRED IN VA Amy Chipman PLACE IN-HAND/BREED SHOW HORSE 1 Lauren Dearlove Drago 2 Sherri Booye MC Endless Echo

43 Page USDF - FEI Trainer s Conference Report by Kathy Rowse Jessica Zoskey and I ventured to Florida for several conferences in January not a difficult decision considering the brutally cold weather we have endured recently! But the 65 degree weather was not the highlight of the conference Steffen Peters was! He had so many Pearls of Wisdom that Jessica and I have brought home with us to Suffolk! This was an inspiring 2 days of exciting horses and correct training. Steffen rode many of the horses to help get them more correctly on the aids. His patience and correct riding really brought out the best in every horse. He was very kind but very clear in what he expected of every horse. However he was clear that he preferred the term COOPERATION between horse and rider instead of Submission from the horse. One of the explanations I liked the most was that Steffen had each rider Finish each half-halt all the way. He wanted to make sure that each half-halt went all the way through the horse and made a difference in the horse s balance. Steffen encouraged every rider to develop cadence and suppleness in their horses and never to compromise on these basics. He also helped each rider to find the most productive frame to get the horse to let go. Some horses were lower and some horses deeper than others. But his advice always was to find the frame where the horse really becomes through. He encouraged riders to get their horse deeper and rounder but not long and low. Since Silverleaf Dressage has four horses working on their one tempis I was especially interested in Steffen s advice regarding the ones. First he expected that the two tempis should be easy and uncomplicated. He advised that the first 3-4 times that you do the ones each day are the most valuable and after that it would be a losing battle. He wanted riders to keep their canter small for the ones control the balance and collection. He said that if you can get 5 of them you are well on your way. But he advised that if one of the changes is complicated and needs to be managed the rider needs to go back and make sure that the straightness and thoroughness of that change is more confirmed. If you have to make an effort about straightness on one of the changes, then the 2s and 1s will be too complicated! At the end of many rides, Scott Hassler summarized by asking each rider to engage their horse s mind give them a job and make sure that they understand each other 100%. A highlight of the 2 days was Oliva LaGoy-Weltz on her horse Rassing s Lonoir. This is a methodical rider who has built a trustworthy relationship with her highly sensitive horse! Steffen was clearly impressed with the partnership and they seem to be developing into a high performance partnership for the USA. Can you imagine being accepted into this clinic and at the end Steffen says to you Where have you been, the US needs you? And Scott announcing Rest assured, you are now on the radar. The great news is that Oliva resides in Reston, VA and we have already talked with her about doing a clinic at Silverleaf Farm when she returns home after the Florida season. So watch for this exciting pair in the future!

44 Page 44 A Visit to Riders Crossing Farm With Jamie Nicolato Jamie has been riding the majority of her life. Like most of Americans she started with hunters and then Dressage. Her first teacher who still teaches her in a clinic format is Pamela Lifton Banker. She is a USDF certified instructor/examiner, Gold medal recipient and judge. Ms. Banker clinics around the US. Jamie was her working student for five years and she was kind enough to share her Grand Prix horses with Jamie to experience the FEI work. Jamie considers her one of the most ethical and humane horse trainer she has had the pleasure to work under. When Ms. Banker moved to Atlanta, Jamie was coached by Kris Montgmery and Richard Williams. She also the good fortune to participate in the USDF certification program early in its development with Debbie Bowman and Cindy Syndor. Jamie passed the pre-test and attended all the clinics but at that time could not afford to take the final. Jamie considers the horses in her life to have been the best teachers from Thoroughbreds to imported Hanoverians. All the horses with various needs have given her the best education. While Jamie doesn t show any more, she puts my funds and time into building a state of the art farm and to become the best riding teacher and horse educator she can become. She has a wonderful barn full of school masters (some working the FEI work) as well as training horses that keep everyone busy. Two working students and ten to twelve dedicated students who excel in the pony club upper dressage levels and college level three-day as well as dressage riders keep her busy. They are students who want to improve their understanding of the aiding system and how the independence and use of their body-effects the horse.

45 Page 45 One unique training skill Jamie uses is the long lines (taught to her by Pam Banker and Richard Williams). She also uses a lot of cavalleti exercises and field work. From off the track horses to well-bred warmbloods, they have made straight, more balanced and very expressive happy upper level horses. Jamie has dedicated herself to thinking outside the box to help Students learn from video taping some parts of their lesson to using graphics during the lesson, assigning reading or videos from my library of good DVDS. She tries to resemble an elite riding school program with school masters, training horses and excellent guest teachers who are invited frequently. Rider s Crossing Farm is small and very easy to work. It was developed by Jamie s husband and Morton barn builders. (web site is Riders crossing Farm). The farm has an indoor, and outdoor and a safe dedicated grass fields to train and develop the horses. You can learn more about Rider s Crossing Farm at Jamie thanks SVDA for its interest and dedication to the art/sport of Dressage.

46 Page 46 HELP THE SVDA JR S!!!!!! Please save your soda/beer cans for us! We will use the tabs to make our costumes for next year s Championships in July Medieval Knights chain mail. After we use them we will donate them for dialysis. We will crush the cans and turn them in for money. You can drop off bags of cans at Bridlewood Estates in Suffolk to Tristin, bring to schooling shows, or we can arrange a pick up. Please contact Theresa Dodge at (call or text) or theresadodge@charter.net with questions or to make arrangements. Thank you, SVDA Juniors

47 Page 47 Classified Ads (Free to SVDA members!) Jumbo custom designed 1995 Turnbow 3 horse gooseneck slant load trailer for sale. Designed for large horses. Aluminum on steel frame. Full storm doors and rear ramp. Extra large carpeted dressing room and collapsible rear tack area with swing out saddle rack. Large hay storage box. Retractable awning. Stall fans and lights and loading lights. Very good condition. Pictures available. $15,000. Located on Eastern Shore of Virginia. Pls maureen@tidewaterfarm.com or call New On Course Riding Jacket. Midnight blue size 16 (but fits like a ladies size 10), $45. Pls call Anna at or patriotfarm@wildblue.net Albion SLK, wide tree, 17.5 seat, excellent condition, purchased new, asking $1850. Contact dannellegoulding@aol.com Ladies 2000 Petrie Dressage Boots. Excellent Quality in good condition with normal wear. Size 7.5, measurements: 14.5 calf, 16 height heel to back of knee, foot to tallest part of the outside boot. Asking $175. Pls me at Jenniferfreeland@verizon.net if interested. For sale: 11 yr old Oldenburg Cross Mare. Schooled in dressage to first level, 16.2 hands & chestnut with white socks & a blaze, very pretty. Asking $ Contact: Lgregory13@cox.net 2000 Sundowner Gooseneck Trailer for sale. 5 horse head to head with tack room and new tires and landing gear. Excellent condition! $24,000. Pls call Martha at