IF NEWS August 2003

 

Greetings!

 

Rider News: The dates of the news riding session are October 12 through December 14th.  We have enough riders for two sessions, one at 3:00 pm and another at 4:30 pm.

Volunteer News:  The next training session for Independence Farms Volunteers will be Sunday October 5 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the outdoor arena on the Washington Fairgrounds.  Considering being an IF volunteer??  Contact Michelle or Terry for more information.

Board Meeting:  The Annual meeting was held Thursday September 4th at the First National Bank Meeting Room.  Two new board members were introduced.  They are Dr. Kenny Johnson, Washington and Becky Hughes also from Washington.

Wish List:  Peacock safety stirrups, Devonshire safety stirrups, 2-step mounting block, copy paper, office desk and chair, folding tables or display tables for promotional booths.

“From the Horse’s Mouth”:  If our therapeutic riding horses could give advice on working as a team this is what they would say:

• All thoughts and energies are aligned and attuned to the riding instructor.
• Steps are literally coordinated and synchronized.
• The side walkers are supporting the rider, not poking the horse, miscuing or having conversations.
• The horse handler is calm, respects the horse’s space and is sensitive to the horse’s moods and needs.
• Communication with the horse is accomplished according to the training of the horse, the protocol of the center and the instructions of the riding instructor.

Taken from Strides (Winter 02-03)
By Susan Dees Psy D