2000 (May) Newsletter

HIGH HOPESHAPPENINGS

VOLUME4, NUMBER2, MAY2000 Melissa Everett, Editor

UP

Coming Events - Put these dates on your calendar . More Information inside.

Friday, May 5 - Cohanzie School Demonstration Day, 11:00 Monday, May 15- Norwich Free Academy Demonstration Day, 10:00 Benny Dover Jackson Middle School Demonstration Day, 11:30 Tuesday, May 16- LEARN Demonstration Day, 10:00 Wednesday, May 17 - Nathan Hale/Benny Dover Jackson Demonstration Day, 10:00 Thursday, May 18- Celentano School Demonstration Day, 10:00 District 18 Preschool Demonstration Day, 1:00 Thursday, May 18- Spring Program Ends Saturday, May 20 - High Hopes Annual Horse Show! - 9:00 to 3:00 Monday, May 29 - Lyme Memorial Day Parade, and Lyme Tag Sale Saturday, June 10 - Symphony In The Meadows! Save the date!

Monday, June 26 - Thursday, June 29 - Summer Camp, Mini Camp "A" Monday, July 10 - Thursday, July 13 - Summer Camp, MiniCamp "B" Monday, July 17 - Friday, July 21- Summer Camp, Beginner Monday, July 24- Friday, July 28- Summer Camp, Intermediate I Monday,July 31- Friday, August 4 - Summer Camp, Intermediate II Monday, August 7 - Thursday, August 10 & Monday, August 14 - Thursday, August 17 - Summer Camp, Advanced Tuesday, August 22- Instructor Training Course Begins Sunday, September 24 - Family Day 2000 at High Hopes - 11:00 to 2:00

Highlights in this issue: ♦

Centered Riding Clinic a Success

♦

Family Day 2000

♦

Spring Horse Care

♦

Volunteer Appreciation Week

♦

Meet the Board

♦

NARHA Region One Conference

HIGH HOPES THERAPEUTIC RIDING, INC. 36 TOWN WOODS ROAD, P. 0. BOX 254, OLD LYME, CT 06371-0254 (860) 434-1974 FAX (860) 434-3723

HIGH HOPES FOLKS

Board of Directors Officers President, Roger Smith Vice President , Jane Bolles Vice President , Jeffrey Ridgway Vice President/Secretary , Elizabeth David Vice President for Development, Cheryl Kelly Heffernan Treasurer, Charles Terrell Directors Sally Aubrey Maureen 0. Augusciak Barbara Earle Ballard Linda F. Bierrie Jane I. Davison John C. Evans Geraldine U. Foster William D. Irving, M.D. Charles Kingsley Judith F. Lightfoot Rives Potts Ann Rice Wayne Southwick, M.D. Kelvin N. Tyler Gurdon B. Wattles

Honorary Board Members Lyttleton B. P. Gould, Jr. Frank Hamilton , Jr. Grace Hamilton

Staff Alison Zack Darrell , Executive Director Kitty Stalsburg , Program Director Petra Shearer , Business Manager Kristin Elliott Leas, Barn Manager Helene Fenger, CampaignAssociate Dawn Zornig , Program Associate Melissa Everett, Program Coordinator Judie Driscoll, Administrative Assistant Barbara Abrams, Instructor Ann Bailey, Instructor Patti Coyle, Instructor Jonnie Edwards, Instructor Bill Nelligan, Instructor Holly Ridgway, Instructor Amara Alpert Cohn, Driving Instructor Carolyn Jagielski, Physical Therapist Heather Rice, Barn Assistant Carol Brining, Barn Staff/ Administrative Assistant Carol Gilchrist, Barn Staff John Driscoll, Caretaker

SUMMER CAMP 2000 begins in a few short weeks and we need YOU to come volunteer of High Hopes/ Let us help you achieve that secret desire to horse-handle or sidewalk. Or, if there's nothing you like better than a friendly horse,

then join our barn crew and help give lots of love and care to our herd.

Cal/ 860-434-1974

We can't waif to see you/

PET REMINDER! Wrth a6 due effort to protect our riders, horses and volunteers, we cannot allow pets to vis;t Hiqh Hopes. We all have stnt99/ed with this, because we love our pets and yours . But in the interest of health and safety, aw need to ask everyone to help us by understandin9 that ;tis very difficult for us to not allow pets , but that ;t is also a serious responslbility for us, and that we need to protect everyone who c.omes to Hlqh Hopes . Because we cannot discriminate amon9 who can and cannot brin9 thelr pets - pkkin9 and choosin9 the dogs we know are safe - we have no cholce but to ask everyone to cooperate with our request, and not brin9 their pets to Hlql, Hopes . 'Thank you aOfor understandin9! - The Hlqh Hopes Staff

PROGRAMNEWS

IT'S EVERYBODY'SBUSINESS

by Kitty Stalsburg

The integration of training and education into the day-to-day activities at High Hopes is a vital part of our continued growth and development. As a program team , our instructors and therapists recognize the inherent value of ongoing education and the process of learning.

As we strive to produce innovative , effective, quality sessions for our riders, we are constantly on the lookout for ways to improve our services.

The program staff works together as a strong team to problem solve, discuss treatment approaches, and design curricula for our participants. Each member of the team brings a different area of expertise and knowledge. Collectively , the program team offers an incredible wealth of therapeutic riding experience, yet we are all eager to learn more from one another, as well as from others.

Thirsty for knowledge , we welcome the opportunity to invite experts in a variety of areas to High Hopes to present workshops on a wide range of topics. As our team continues to develop and learn, we are able to then utilize new skills , integrate new concepts, and produce more effective sessions for our participants.

Likewise, the NARHA Approved Instructor Training Course is a key component to the growth of our staff and the quality of our service. The responsibility for conducting this course is a serious commitment for High Hopes. We see this training component as a significant way to fulfill our mission.

Through the sharing of our knowledge and expertise with others, we hope that those whom we train can offer therapeutic riding services to more potential participants. The Instructor Candidates who come to High Hopes directly enhance our ability to serve participants. In effect, they are additional instructors who provide quality one-on-one support for our riders.

Surrounded by the desire to learn, and striving to provide a strong educational experience for ourselves and others, the program staff at High Hopes is driven in the pursuit of knowledge. Seeking personal knowledge as individuals , we are brought closer together as a dynamic team to the ultimate benefit of our program.

PLEASEREMEMBER . ..

NO CLASSES will be held April 17 - 22. Classes resume on April 24.

by Alison Zack Darrell Greetings of Spring! It 's a reflective time of year for all of us at High Hopes , because it all began in the Springtime - High Hopes, that is! We were born as a tiny program for eight special needs children from the Essex Elementary School. Sis Gould brought a horse to the schoolyard for Betty Greene's special needs class to ride one day in March. twenty-six years ago. We celebrated our beginnings on March 22 of this year on Founders ' Day. This day of celebration was established last year for our 25th Anniversary. and we dedicated the day to our founders , those who, as Board Members. led the organization through its first 25 years .

On Founders' Day 2000, the High Hopes Board and former Board were joined by Staff for a walk through the woods to Critter Rock and over to our new property. Following our walk, we observed the 4:30 class taught by Jonnie Edwards , and then gathered for a cocktail reception at the home of our Board President and his wife, Roger and Marcia Smith. More than 40 people attended and it was a great way to kick off Spring.

Two big community events are upcoming this summer and fall that I hope you all will put on your calendars. The Old Lyme Midsummer Festival is the weekend of July 28 th . High Hopes will have a presence at the festival on the grounds of the Florence Griswold Museum, with an interactive art project for teens based around horses and healing. th

On September 24 , High Hopes and the Lymes ' Youth Service Bureau will host Family Day 2000 at our facility.

This will be a first for Lyme and Old Lyme in response to Governor Rowland 's declaration of Family Day - a day to recognize Connecticut's families as our most valuable resource. The theme for the day is "Rural Life in Lyme/Old Lyme at the Turn of the 20th Century." The day will be filled with lots of exciting and educational activities for families .

Events begin at 11:00 and end at 2 :00. Please consider being a part of this unique event. Your added support will make the day spectacular.

We have a significant demand from students from afar wishing to take our Instructor Training Course this summer .

We hope to offer it to six students over a six-week period beginning the last week in June through the first week in August. In order for us to do this, we need to find student housing for the last three weeks of the course. Please contact me at High Hopes if you have any great ideas for students willing to pay room and board - rooms for rent, host families , a house for rent - let me know! (The approximate dates are July 17 - August 5.)

SPECl4l OLYMPICS ACCREDffA noN OURS AGAIN!

IS

by Kitty Stalsburg Once again, High Hopes has achieved Accreditation through Special Olympics Connecticut. Accreditation with Special Olympics involves responding to an extensive questionnaire , submitting appropriate documentation , and being in compliance with various Special Olympics requirements.

High Hopes staff attend seasonal coaches ' meetings , maintain their Equestrian Coach Certification, and attend periodic regional meetings.

taught four small group lessons , including a bit of "bod y work " on both horses and riders. Participants were amazed bv her keen powers of observation and her ability to make subtle changes in both the horse and the rider that resulted in huge differences in performance .

Some of the participants chose to further explore their own body awareness by having a private session with Nancy . The Feldenkrais Method integrates movement with thinking. feeling and sensing, by helping individuals improve their posture and breathing. Through the senses, riders learn to reduce stress, tension and fatigue as they develop efficient and flexible movement.

The Equestrian event for Connecticut is scheduled for the Fall of 2000. Individuals interested in learning more about Special Olympics Equestrian competition are welcomed to speak to program staff.

Both aspects of the workshop created a fantastically interactive experience for everyone, horses and riders alike.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

MORIN

by Helene Fenger

We are proud to offer a variety of programs and services that benefit the people of Southeastern Connecticut, and we are grateful to our community for their ongoing support of our programs. A very special "Thank You" to:

The Essex Savings Bank Community Investment Program A Vote of Confidence! Each year , customers of Essex Savings Bank cast a vote for the community nonprofit organization of their choice. Of the 59 nonprofit organizations on the 2000 ballot, we ranked in the top ten! We received 209 out of a total of 5,353 votes from the community , and a gift of $1,504 will be awarded to us in person at a reception on April 10.

The Community Foundation of Southeastern Connecticut We received a $9,000 grant award to provide funding for 1520 special needs students from the District 18 public schools and East Lyme High School. This is a significant award, since our application was one of nearly 100 requests for funding from area non-profits. This support will make therapeutic riding available to students who would not otherwise be able to participate in our programs .

CENTERED RIDING CLINIC WITH WENDY MURDOCH IS A HUGE SUCCESS

by Kitty Stalsburg On February 24-27 , Centered Riding Instructor Wendy Murdoch and Feldenkrais practitioner Nancy Haller visited High Hopes and offered a clinic featuring centered riding , rider body awareness , and Feldenkrais sessions.

The event was attended by members of our staff and volunteers, as well as by individuals from the surrounding equine community . Wendy worked with each rider to enhance their understanding of body mechanics and the effect that a rider 's position has on the behavior and performan ce of their horse. Mornings were devoted to lectures on the basic principles of centered riding . During the afternoons , Wendy

SENSORY INTEGRAnoN

WITH CIAUDl4

by Patti Coyle We had the pleasure and privilege of having Claudia Morin visit High Hopes in February to conduct a workshop on Sensory Integration. She is Director of Occupational Therapy at the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinic in Augusta , GA Over the past 15 years, Claudia has served NARHA as a Board Member, AHA Board Member , and Accreditation and Medical Committee Member.

Sensory Integration describes the neurological process by which an individual organizes sensation from one 's own body , as well as the environment , for use . Countless bits of sensory information enter our brain at every moment, not only from our eyes and ears, but also from every place in our bodies.

The brain locates, sorts and orders these sensations. When sensations flow in an integrated and well-organized manner , the brain is able to use that information to learn and behave appropriately . Those who experience difficulties with Sensory Integration often exhibit delays in motor, language and academic development. Behavioral and social issues are often evident , as their methods of coping with confusing and disorganizing sensory input is often viewed as inappropriate and socially unacceptable .

The workshop was designed as an introduction into sensory integration issues, using discussion and role playing to allow us to simulate sensory integration experiences we might find with our students. The objective of the workshop was to increase our knowledge to a level where we could apply it to our riders, gain experience through the application process , and directly benefit our riders .

Over the two days, Claudia conducted a number of "lessons" for each of us to experience and gain better understanding of our own sensory processing techniques . Once we understood ourselves , we were then ready to move on and begin to apply that knowledge and those techniques to others.

This program is invaluable to High Hopes ' staff and the others who took part . Like any workshop , the learning is only part of

the equation. The next step is to apply what we've learned.

That will be where the real experience is gained and benefits

seen.

COGNTTIVF/PSYCHOSOC/AlWORKSHOP

by Barbara Abrams Titls past February, the Cognitive/Psychosocial Workshop usually reserved for those enrolled in the Instructor Training Course, invited others who are interested in learning more about how to work with riders with mental health challenges to attend the two-day workshop . Instructors and staff from a Maryland therapeutic riding program came to High Hopes, in addition to other instructors in our area and, of course, our own ITC students. In all, Dawn and I worked with 20 participants over the two days.

Instruction was held lecture-style in the lounge and trailer, with activities and hands-on teaching techniques taking place in the barn and indoor arena. Working in groups of three or four , attendees role-played possible instructing scenarios on horseback, for the purpose of problem-solving future si_tuatio~s with their riders. Peer interaction and group discussion was a great way to exchange ideas within this safe atmosphere.

Feedback from the workshop was very positive, with suggestions for additional , more in-depth seminars and lectures on working with riders that have cognitive , behavioral and psychosocial disabilities. And since sharing ideas and techniques is an important part of working in the therapeutic riding environment , Dawn and I look forward to organizing other such workshops in the future.

NARHA REGION ONE CONFERENCE

by Dawn Zomig The NARHA Region One individual membership came together for a 3 day workshop at the historic Black Point Inn on Prouts Neck near Scarborough, overlooking Maine 's scenic coastline and pine forests. The weekend was filled with educational experiences and many opportunities to network.

Networking took place as the sun rose over the coast line during morning walks on the beach, the rush to make each seminar, during a lobster dinner, and (would you believe?) a midnight run to L.L. Bean.

Because all of the workshops were fabulous , it 's difficult to decide which was best. I wish I had a picture of the audience when a mother of an autistic child, and a nurse by trade , spoke on "Autism and the Benefits of Therapeutic Riding." The room was reverentl y hushed as a mother spoke professionally and from her heart . The unique thing is that each presenter spoke with passion and compassion.

<?11 . Sunday, we went to Hearts and Horses, a local therapeutic n~~

center , where we saw equine demonstrations involving Reiki, massage , equine chiropractic , dentistry and others. We also enjoyed hearing the horses nicker quietly to one another as we ate lunch "over the fence" with them.

During the time we were all together, the rooms filled with stories and experiences . If I've learned anything about this group of people and our organization. it's that we come together to share with one another versus compete. As one individual put it while looking out to sea (quoting Margaret Mead) , "Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the world . It's the only thing that ever does."

MEET THEBOARDOF DIRECTORS We thought that it would be nice if everyone had the opportunity to meet the "forces behind the faces" at High Hopes. The guidance of our Board of Directors is an integral part of everything we do at High Hopes, and we 're grateful for every hour that they generously volunteer to us. (Yes! Our Board are volunteers , too!) Over the course of the next few newsletters , we'll be spotlighting members. So, without further ado ...

IEFFREYH. RIDGWAY Jeff is one of the Board Vice Presidents , and his presence is strongly felt in many ways at High Hopes - from his involvement as Chair of the Building and Grounds Committee, coC_hair (with Sally Aubrey) of the Building Project Committee , Finance Committee and Symphony in the Meadows Committee . . . to arriving upon the Nth hour to help us with leaking roofs and other emergencies .

Born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (Southern Rhodesia), Jeff was educated in England, where he graduated in 1972 with a degree in Boatyard Management.

In 1975 he went "Sailabout" ¡to the Mediterranean , Canary Islands , Trinidad, United States, and many other places.

According to his mother, Jeff began riding horses when he was six months old. (We like those early achievers.) He rode in Pony Club to "B" level, and also rode hunters . He says that he' s "always been near horses or Holly, and that goes hand in hand " Speaking of Holly (yes, our very own instructor), they met and married in the Caribbean , then moved to Essex, CT in 1978 where Jeff managed the Essex Boatworks until 1987 when as he puts it, they were "blessed by Kate and our lives chang~."

In 1988, he started in partnership with Chris Caulfield and has been building houses in the Lower Connecticut Valley ever since. "Then," Jeff adds, "Holly found LCVERA, " and nothing has been the same!

WIUJAMD. /RV/NG,M.D. "Doctor Bill ," as he is affectionately known , was born, raised and educated in New York City, a product of the Jumel School, the New York City Public School System, Columbia University, and the New York University College of Medicine (class of 1952). Post-graduate medical training was provided at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, University Hospital at New

York University, Bellevue Medical Center in New York City, and the Yale School of Medicine at Grace-New Haven Hospital. This was concluded in June of 1955, and he entered into Pediatric practice in July of that year , in Old Saybrook.

He retired from active private practice in August 1996.

Appointments , past and present , include: Assistant Clinical Professor (Pediatrics) , Yale School of Medicine ; Senior Staff, Children 's Hospital , Yale-New Haven ; Preceptor and Attending Physician at Hospital of St. Raphael (New Haven) , working with Yale and H.S.R. House Staff.

In 1942, he enlisted as an Apprentice Seaman in the U.S. Coast Guard . Service and on-going training were centered primarily in the Hospital Corps, at a sea rescue unit and, more broadly , in the North Atlantic and European-Mediterranean Theatres of Operation aboard the USS Richardson . He was discharged from service as a Chief Petty Officer , Hospital Corps, in June 1946.

In his own words: "I had the good fortune to meet my beloved wife Esther , briefly in 1944. However , we courted by mail and during a few very short intervals of reunion . In 1946, she consented to be my wife and we lived happily ever after .

Esther was an exemplary elementary school teacher, an experienced and valued member of American Airlines, and the voice and business manager of the office in Saybrook all during my years of practice. She is a devoted mother and grandmother. Without her , I never would have been able to reach any of my goals . Without her, our three children, eight grandchildren , and our great-granddaughter would never have been the recipients of life."

Dr. Bill 's extracurricular activities include: Past President , St. David 's Society of NY; Member , St. Andrew 's and St. George 's Societies of NY; Member , The Pilgrims of the United States in NYC; Member, Congregational Church of Lyme ; Board Member, High Hopes and Connecticut March of Dimes; Health Officer , Town of Old Saybrook; President, Cove Road Association. His latest venture is - are you ready?

- tap dancing . (And he speaks fluent Welsh!)

Bil In.ting, Manhattan COH-Wy

EGG ON OUR FACE DEPARTMENT Last issue, when we reported on our Annual Meeting. we inadvertently neglected to mention one very important award . . . and two ~ important people.

Joseph N. ("Jerry") and Kitty Greene were the recipients of the Sally H. Aubrey Award As many of you know, this award is given to an individual who exemplifies the true spirit of High Hopes through their commitment , dedication and compassion .

Over the years , Kitty and Jerry have demonstrated these values time and again on High Hopes' behalf .

Our apologies to Jerry and Kitty for leaving out mention of this important event, and how much we value their presence in our lives.

Jerryand !<,tty Greene receiw the Sally H. Aubniy AMWd

A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR -,999-2000 ADOPT-A-HORSE PARENTS Anne & Carol Bo)1lton - Gopher Marion Buchanan - Fred Susan Childs - April Marilyn Conklin - Julianna Peter & Alexandra Daitch - Rocky Elizabeth & Henri David, Jr. - Rocky Geraldine Foster - Bull , Geri and Smokey Kelse y Fournier & Family - Poncho Gurdon Wattles & Kathy Fullerton - Murry Steven & Patricia Goldblatt - Apache Gra ce & Frank Hanullon , Jr . - Apple Jack Lytt Gould - Julianna Rigmor Heynderyk - Filly Belz Hartz - Apple Jack Kristin Karabees - Doc John D. & Mary MacDonald - Honey Bob & Penny Nelson - Petra Cynthia Palmer - Honey Mr . & Mrs . Joseph Parsons (for Quintin and Oliver Parsons) - Smokey Tom, Linda & J.T. Picazio - Filly Holly & Jeff Ridgway - Domino Connie & Al Rogers - Rock y Bonnie, Phil & Laurie Seagull - Dan cer Kara Seymour - Julianna Charl es & Martha Terrell - Gopher Victoria & William Winterer - Cody York C .I. Recreation Project F.1.T . Program-Bull

SPRING HORSE CARE

by Kristin Elliott Leas The grass is turning green at High Hopes , and the horses are shedding all the hair that has kept them warm over the winter .

Shedding time talces a lot of elbow grease and the steady application of a shedding blade . Unfortunately , there are !!Q short cuts to getting rid of all that hair . Horses should not be clipped this late in the season , because the top of the hair follicle will be cut off, leaving the summer coat dull in appearance.

Spring is the time for a horse's annual health check.

Vaccinations are given around the beginning of April (right before the start of mosquito season in our area). Vaccinations are for both mosquito-transmitted diseases like Encephalomyelitis , and horse-contagious diseases like influenza. A Coggins test is routinely done for horses that travel. It checks for Equine Infectious Anemia , a disease that spreads from horse to horse via mosquito.

Teeth should also be checked at this time. A horse 's teeth continue to grow throughout its lifetime , and the grinding motion of chewing creates sharp points on the teeth. Your vet or horse dentist will "float'' the teeth to file away the sharp edges and prevent mouth discomfort.

Ticks (boo! hiss!) have been causing increasing problems for both horses and people. In our area , Lyme Disease and, more recently, Ehrlichiosis are prevalent. The latter causes a high fever. When working out of doors, be sure to talce preventive measures. Horses and people should be sprayed with a repellant designed specifically for ticks. You should wear long, light-colored pants in order to more easily see any "passengers, " and tuck the pant cuffs into your socks.

(look for the Easter egg design on her rump !). and is looking and feeling much better .

Doug has found a new home in Massachusetts . An instructor from Mystic Valley Hunt Club took a shine to him when he was visiting there. and he will be doing trail rides and happily hanging out with his new young couple .

Our beloved and hard-working Bosco has earned a welldeserved retirement and - lucky horse! - is returning to his former home in Lyme where he can live out his years just being the good horse that he is.

Chocolate Bars enjoyed his forced stall retirement (the result of a bowed tendon) . After a year of lay-up with limited improvements , CB (against his liking) was returned to full service teaching our riders to canter. Just when we thought we were ahead of the game , he had the last laugh . While playing in the pasture (almost a year to the date of the first injury) , he bowed his other tendon! So, CB is happy once again as he is now pennanently retired from program, and has gone to a volunteer's home for all the special therapy that he needs.

(Thank you, Karen!) After a couple of months, he will be ready to retire to pasture (where we hope he has the good sense to stop bowing his tendons).

Wally re-injured his suspensory tendon last fall. After an extensive lay-up time with limited improvements , he has officially retired as a therapy horse . . . only to take on a new career! His kind, quiet manner and wisdom will be used to keep instructor Barbara Abrams' s young Shaga Arabian , Nandor , in line.

Wally will be moving into his new accommodations at Barbara 's house as soon as barn construction is completed.

SPOll/GHT ON . ... DOMINO! If your horse has not been worked through the winter , it will need to be conditioned gradually. A fitness program should be created to bring your horse to its peak level of fitness for the particular level of activity you want to pursue . And don 't forget your own fitness! If riding is not part of your regular routine , take it on GRADUALLY. It would not be kind to you or your horse to go out for a two-hour trail ride the first time out.

Pastures need a health check, too. Soil samples should be taken from individiÂľtl fields , analyzed, and then the proper mix of lime and fertilizer should be applied. Horses should remain in their winter tum-out lots until the ground is dry and solid, to prevent them from digging up the soft ground. Fence lines should be checked and any weak sections replaced.

Domino is a 16 year old black-and-white paint gelding who came to us from New York where he was used as a lesson horse . His front leg conformation is toeing, and over time -this can lead to some navicular problems. He wears special bar shoes to make him more comfortable .

Domino is very laid-back, and is carefully gentle with all of his riders. His favorite days are when his barn buddy , Kathy Heller , comes to give him extra grooming and TLC . (His other highlight is once a year , at Halloween , when the instructors dress "just " like him in their cow costumes!)

Have a wonderful Spring riding season!

WHINNIES IN THE WIND (OR, WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE BARN)

by Kristin Elliott Leas As many of you know , April has had her ups and downs , health-wise . However , after a bout of laminitis this past fall (a result of her Cushine:s disease). she has a new sorine: haircut

Domino and his Barn Buddy , Kathy Heller enjoy a bit of sunshine

WE WELCOMEOUR FIRSTBARNBUDDY! Kathy almost whose horses

Heller has been a part of High Hopes since, well, forever. Her horse Lumpy (who lived to be 38, and photograph graces our lounge) was one of the first to be part of LCVERA.

Involved with horses since she was eleven, Kathy rode Western for years , then switched to English when she was 22.

From there, she went on to 3-day eventing. She is also an accomplished driver , and has done combined driving since 1989.

Kathy not only volunteers with us, but also participates in our riding and driving programs . Her love and appreciation for High Hopes is boundless, a fact that's evident every time her smiling face comes through our door.

In her desire to give back to us as much as we've given her, Kathy has taken on the "buddying" of not just one lucky horse, but three! She's the new "mom" to Bull, Julianna, and Domino. Thank you, Kathy , for being the first of our Barn Buddies, and for loving us as much as we love you!

KRISTINSEZ, â&#x20AC;˘sEA HORSEBARNBUDDY!" Every horse in our herd is looking to have a buddy . This program is designed to match an individual to a horse, which they can then pamper and provide with TLC. The Buddy must commit to a schedule of coming in a couple of times a week to groom and give their horse some much-needed love and attention. Additional jobs include clipping, mane pulling and, possibly , in-hand training as your skill level increases. This is a great opportunity to give back to those who give us so much - our horses! If you're interested in becoming a Horse Barn Buddy , please contact Kristin, the Barn Manager .

WELCOMENEW VOLUNTEERS! Please join me in welcoming these new members of the High Hopes volunteer family: Francis Albert , Kerri Aylward, Allison Becker, Jeff Bailey, Barbara Ballard, Krista Bigiarelli, Tami Blondin, Kirk Brown, Christopher Burrus , Claudia Butz, Rebecca Cahill, Lili Chapman, John Collins, Mary-Lynn Costa, Anne Marie Costantino , Amy Cowgill , Christopher Coyle, John Crolly, Sr., Becky Crosby , Chris Demach, Tiffani DeWolf, Gary Dionne , Cynthia Driscoll, Diane Dupont , Diana Flynn, Deb Fox, Roberta Fraenza , Jaime Fries, Stacey Fulkerson, Danielle Funaro , Lauri Gagnon , Whitney Gillette, Rosemary Gurpide, Leigh Hagar, Rick Harrison, Weat Hart, Megan Hayes, Rick Hernandez , Erin Horn, Katie Jackson, Maria Janerus, Stephen Johnson , Elizabeth Kirby, Casey Kirwin, Rachel Larkin, Victor Larraza, Leslie Lemert , Dan Magano, Danielle Maura, Anne-Margaret McElroy , Anna Mock, Dorothea Moore, Joan Mulkey , Cricket Murphy , Bob Nelson , Penny Nelson, Madeleine Nichols , Adam Palmer, Jessica Palmer, Robert Paul , Gillian Perry, Lee Pritchard, Katherine Provencher, Caitlin Rawson , Amanda Rhodes , Caroline Robinson, Cheryl Robinson, Gordon Robinson, Edgardo Rosario , Pedro Rosario, Michelle Sadarangani , Kira Savino, Wendy Savino , Gary Scott, Chuck Segar, Linda Segar, Amy Seseske, MaryLawrence Sinclair , Hayward Smith, Gail Soderstrom, Neal Sorensen, Cynthia Sullivan, Nathan Thermer, Cynthia Tomlinson, Michelle VandeMore , Joan-Ellis VanLoan, Bruce Watford , Andrew Watterson , Mary Way, Nancy Weinstein , Maggie Williams , and Lara Zimmerman.

(If you 're a new volunteer , and your name has somehow been left off the list (or misspelled) inadvertently, PLEASE LET US KNOW!)

THANKYOUSARE DUE TO . ..

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATIONWEEK. .. was April 9 - 15. In honor of that, and becausewe endeavor to appreciate our volunteers each and every day of the year , High Hopes has gifted its volunteers with a terrific tote bag.

Beige with green straps, it carries our logo on one side, and the words "High Hopes Volunteer." If you are an active volunteer , and have not yet received your tote , please stop by so we can give you one . And congratulations! You people are the BEST!

BARN VOLUNTEERSNEEDED! Your horse friends need your help . Volunteers are needed to work with the barn staff to help with scheduled feedings , grooming, and pasture and barn work If you ' re interested in getting some behind-the-scenes equine experience and learning about the High Hopes herd from those who know it best , give Barn Manager Kristin Elliott Leas a call.

â&#x20AC;˘

Madeleine McAlpin Vanderpool, for sending us copies of her lovely children' s book Cock Robin.

Mary Mille, for participating in the Connecticut College volW1teerfair.

Liz Michalski, for donating her professional services in writing, graphics and design.

Gary Borla, Petra Shearer, Carmine DeStefano, Helen and Gerry Dyar, for office supplies.

Carey Lowe, for supplying Mountain Spring Water to our thirsty sta.tJand volW1teercrew.

Patricia Feltham, for a crop and lead line.

The Swensons (Wizard' s folks) for a various pieces of tack, and polar fleece britches.

Inge Hieret for a gel pad and for Dandy' s medication.

Mrs. McHutchison, for an AS1M hard hat.

Beth Ehlers, for horse treats.

Erin Daly, for a horse blanket.

Bill and Carol Ridgway, for a chair.

Joanne Church, for horse paraphernalia and books.

Lisa and Helen Burkarth, for a saddle, box of tack and books.

Kathy Heller, for two buckets oflaW1drydetergent.

Susie Berks for two 50# bags of Source.

Ted Crosby, for once again coming through for us, this time by welding our tractor bucket.

John Driscoll, for two paper towel holders.

The crew from AIC, for unloading hay.

Karen Milano, for adopting Chocolate Bars.

A SPEC/Al THANKYOU . . . to Sandy Sanstrom and the Sea Scouts: Lauren Alexa, Rachael Drozd, Noelle Gill, Aaron Giugno, Christopher Laine , Jonathan Laine, Donald Moisa, Gary Nash, Gary Nash Jr., Samuel Nash, Adam Shreders , and Benjamin Turner . They spent a Saturday with us, working on our new property line .

So along with the great American novel, I hope you will consider writing a few lines that I can promise you will be read and remembered. Include High Hopes in your will.

Leaving your mark on the world is easier than you think.

NOTEWORTHYNEWS (with thanks to Winslow Therapeutic Riding Unlimited)

HIGH HOPES WELCOMESMORE BABIES!

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And congratulations, also, to volunteer John Sturges who became a shirt-busting proud frrst-time grandpa on March 2 when Samantha Kay Hodgdon put in an appearance . John is flying to Phoenix, AZ, over the Easter holiday to meet his grandchild in person. (And anticipating the arrival of his second grandchild in July!)

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SafeTech , a division of Troxel , has just started a new equestrian helmet program . You can order the Troxel Trainer helmet for ONLY $ IO (plus a very minimal shipping fee)! To find out more about the program, call SafeTech at I-800-270-2526.

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National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities (NICHCY) (www.nichcy.org) is a national information and referral center that provides information on disability-related issues for families and professionals.

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ABLEDATA (www.abledata.com) has a data base of 24,000 disability-related products from nearly 3000 domestic and international manufacturers and distributors .

There's a classified section where you can buy or sell used special -needs equipment.

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National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) (www .nord.rdb.com) provides information and networking for persons with any type of rare disorder.

Literature , infonnation and referrals are available .

Networks persons or families with same disorder for support.

PARTINGIS SUCH SWEETSORROW Beth Pastor - physical therapist, High Hopes ITC graduate , and all-around nifty person - is leaving our fair climes for the rugged beauty of New Hampshire. While we 're feeling sorry for ourselves, knowing that she's going away, we also are excited for Beth, who is elated by the impending move. Best of luck to all, Beth! We'll miss you, so don 't be a stranger.

CONGRATlJlAllONS . .. to Maria Blackstone of In Harmony Therapeutic Riding in Hopkinton , RI . Maria just received her driving instructor certification. ' Way to go, Maria!

WHERE THERE'SA Will . ..

by Helene Fenger I have often heard people say that they wish they could make a mark on the world - through scientific discovery , creating a work of art, writing a great book, or composing a beautiful piece of music. These are all wonderful ways to contribute something to the world that will last long after you are gone.

But there are other ways you can make a difference .

High Hopes makes its mark on the world each day, one person at a time , touching lives with the work we do - work that lives on in each rider , family and volunteer that comes to our program. It is, in essence , a living legacy .

You can leave your own mark on the world and in doing so help High Hopes continue to serve thousands of riders for years to come by doing one simple thing - include High Hopes in your will. Through your will or trust you can plan gifts that accomplish great things without affecting your current financial well-being. You can even honor a loved one by making a charitable bequest in his or her memory , creating a memorial that lives on in service to others .

It is easy to help NARHA (the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) by using the NARHA link to Amazon.com . NARHA receives a percentage of your purchase . Just go to www .narha .org - select Links Click on Amazon.

Congratulations to rider Kyle Mittlehauser on the birth of his baby sister , Julia, who joined the High Hopes family on Tuesday , January 11. Kyle is a stupendous big brother and takes his role very seriously. Welcome , little girl!

HRP OUT HIGH HOPES Heroes of Pets.commitment is a new program that celebrates and supports the important role that animals and people play in each other 's lives. Their mission is to provide more than $1 million annually to organizations in which people help animals and/or animals help people. Submit a story about your volunteer experience and qualify High Hopes to be considered for a special Heroes of Pets.commitment award .

Each month , Heroes of Pets.commitment will feature stories about volunteers and the organization where they volunteer.

Story submissions also help in determining the grant award recipients at the end of the year.

Visit their web site at www.pets.com and click on the Pets.commitment link to learn more. You can also email them at heroes @pets.com or call 800-948-3130 .

Nm-Pro6t Organiz;,tim

U.S. Postage PAID Old Lyme, CT 06371

PermitNo. l

High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc.

36 Town Woods Road P.O. .BOJ:254 Old Lyme, CT 06371

Symphony in the Meadows

June 10, 2000 Save the date!!!

THE HIGH HOPES 15 THANNUAL HORSE SHOW TAKES PLACE A-t4Y20,

2000

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SA VE THE DATE

& COME JOIN IN THE FUN!

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PLEASE JOIN USAS WE TAKE PART IN THE OLD LYME MEMORIAL DAY PARA.DE!

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