2002 (Fall) Newsletter

HIGH HOPESHAPPENINGS!

VOLUME 6, NUMBER 3, FALL 2002

Melissa Everett, Editor

t/ORSESHOW AND FAMILY DAY 2002!

ElizabethMcCallumand her family celebrate her medal

HIGH HOPESTHERAPEUTICRIDING,INC. 36 TOWN WOODSROAD, P. 0. BOX 254, OLD LYME, CT 06371-0254 PHONE (860) 434-1974, FAX (860) 434-3723 WEB: www.htghhopestr.org

WEHAVEA NEW FAMILYMEMBER! Everyone knows how sad we all were when our beloved Cappy disappeared lac;tfall, just before we moved into the new facility.

Well, thanks to an eagle-eyed someone who spotted a stray cat and notified Kitty, we now have a new pal. Neko (pronounced "Nay-ko," which is Japanese for cat) was named by our friend Chi.ham Kitajima and came to live with us in late May. A little over a year old, he is a white and butterscotch tabby with huge feet, big eyes, and a sweet personality. He's acclimated . to _his new environment (he loves barn life!) and enjoys soaking up all the petting and kisses and treats that come his way.

If you have family, friends or neighbors who want to support our programs with their time and cannot do so by working with our riders, horses , or in the office, please ask them to contact us about being a "meeter greeter. " This volunteer job requires a caring, responsible person, trained to be knowledgeable about High Hopes activities, ready to meet and greet (in person or on the phone) those who come to us, and provide a valuable level of support to our staff and other volunteers.

1i" ANNUAL HORSE SHOW A ROUSING SUCCESS/ There's no doubt about it- the folks at High Hopes have more fun than anybody - especially at their Annual Horse Show and Family Day. With a thunderstorm having graced us the night of May 31, we nervously watched the morning skies of June 1 to see what would happen. Fortunately , the day dawned clear and bright, warm with a mild breeze. We couldn't have asked for a better day for our Horse Show.

Fifty-five riders participated in eleven classes . Judges Kathy Heller (herself a High Hopes rider) and Mary Fischer (a former instructor) had a great deal of fun watching the riders strut their stuff for their family and friends .

Our new pelfNeko

And the winners are:

FRONT DESK CREW ARE STARS/

by Petra Shearer More and more, we have additional helpful people at our front desk. Our appeal for volunteers to meet and greet those who come to High Hopes is being heard Sally Aubrey, Karen Danielson, Carol Gill, Lee Holstein, Beth Olmstead and Laureen Scranton have given generously of their time to be at our "reception post," as Beth describes it. They have greeted innumerable people and handled dozens of phone calls.

Landon Potts, our summer office intern, has also pitched in to meet and greet. Supported by Carol Brining and Judie Driscoll, our part-time administrative assistants, all of these folks are helping us work toward achieving our goal of fulltime front desk coverage.

Now it is time to move to the next level - to seek volunteers who can be at our front desk whenever there is program activity. This means from 9am to 7:30pm Monday through Friday, and from 9am lo 4pm on Saturday. Why? Because when someone is stuck in traffic and wants to let us know they are enroute, we need to be there to get that message and inform our instructors and volunteers.

When a parent is calling to assure a participant or volunteer that they are coming to pick them up, we need to be there to get the message to an anxious child or teenager that they haven't been forgotten. When someone who hasheard of High Hopes stops by hoping to learn about us first hand, we need to be there to help arrange a time when that may be done.

In Basketball, medals were awarded to Danielle Ciccotti, Joey Becker, Augie Becker, James Elliott and MarlcRusso .

In Baton Relay, medals were awarded to Molly Dunne , Tammy Faircloth, Michael Crane and Jonathon Gobrogge .

John Hendrick placed First in Team Riding, with Nicole Walstra and Stephen Puglisi tying for Second .

Hannah Consiglio placed First in the 100m Sprint Emily Graniero and Lara McGowan tied for Second, and Luis Gomes and J.T. Picazio tied for Third.

In the Barrel Race , medals were awarded to Marshall Wilbur Kevin Whipple, Eilis Brake, Eliz.abeth McCallum, Migliaccio and Patrick Kubiak.

Leah

Olivia Denison placed First in the Slalom Course, with Chelsea Abrahamsson coming in Second, and Casey Snyder placing Third Derron Lepoutre placed First in the Triple Jump . Lisa Boyd and Whitney Viola tied for Second, and Kelsey Rose Swan and Cara Finan tied for Third.

Kerry Ann Christianson placed First in Dressage. Lindsey Roseman took Second, followed with a three-way tie for Third

by Therese Popinchalk, Jordan Thompson and Sylvia LaChapelle.

Cross Country A gave us a First Place tie between Ben Abraham and Phillip Gullotte . .

There was also a tie for First Place in Cross Country B between Kristen Cottrell and Jake Kirschner. Tied for Second were Kelsey Fournier, Heather Pacholski , Ethan Rohrberg , Evan Brookman. Scott Stoddard and Jamie Blencowe .

In Cross Country C, Sarah Perkins , Eddie Hobson, Seth Rohrberg and Alex Lehet tied for First. Tying for Second were Chelsea Jacobucci, Michael Grater, Dennis O 'Brien and Andrew Keefe.

Special events included U1epresentation of goodbye gifts to our Japanese volunteer Chiharu Kitajima, who is off to Salt Lake City. Utah for the next leg in her United States adventure. We also offered a moment of remembrance for Pete Pierson, our first Board President. and rider Jordan Siborg. Other events included arts and crdfis, a bake sale. a clothing sale, face painting, and a raflle and silent auction.

Food was prepared by our ever-faithful Lyme-Old Lyme Lions .

Leah Migliaccio receives her medal from Erin Linardi while volunteers Liz Hartmann, Zee Zomig , Linda Almeida (and faithf" steed Smokey) look on (Photo Credit Clare Toreffi)

Special U-.anks to Chairperson Stephanie Knoll. announcers Chris Coyle and Jeff Ridgway. Joanne Kraska. Barbarn Pickett and Dawn Sharpe who handled arts and crafts . class coordinator Grace Stalsburg, James Gilchrist. the Good News Clowns , John Sturges. photographer Clare Torelli. popcorn man John Sharpe, Emily and, Amanda Johns-Ahem . ribbon presenters Lytt Gould. William Irving. M.D .. Erin Zanardi .

Koko Gildersleeve, Sally Aubrey, Jerry & Kitty Greene. Ann Pierson Pawluck , and Gurdon and Kathleen Wattles. Zee Zornig for ring set-up. and Lytt Gould and Bob Nelson for stewarding.

A quiet moment for rider Whitney Viola and Dandy (Photo Credit: Clare Torelli)

Therese Popinchalk celebrates

(Photo Credit

her medal with her parents Clare Torelli)

Mark Russo and Mom MicheTieshow off his medal (Photo Credit: Clare Torelli)

PERPETUAL SCHOIARSHIP Will

HONOR

RIDER A purple butterfly bush blossoms in the memorial garden out by the pond at High Hopes. Purple was Jordan Siborg' s favorite color. A rider with Holly Ridgway on Monday afternoons, Jordan left us earlier than expected this past spring.

Dr. BillIrving presents

c:1medc:11t.o Molly Dunne c:1nd her team (locl<ie l<ongley, Chihcn-ul(itQjimc:1and lady) (Photo Credit Clare Torelli)

Jordan's courageous spirit and love of life, her exuberance for riding, respect for her fellow riders, and great love of horses are her legacy to High Hopes. To honor her memory, a perpetual scholarship has been established in Jordan's name, to be given each year to a rider who exemplifies her extraordinary character.

Thank you, Jordan, for teaching us all so much while you were with us!

HED/Dm We knew that he was the cutest thing on four hooves, but little did we know, when Johanne Mangi brought her Shetland Pony to live with us, what a font of talent Smokey would prove to be!

Just when we thought he'd done it all - program mount, High Hopes representative, television star - Smokey (with a little help from handlers Kristin Elliott Leas and Linda Almeida) became certified as a Delta Society Pet Partner!

What this all means is that Smokey and his team are qualified to provide animal-assisted activities (AAA) to those in need.

He and his crew are now registered by the nationwide Pet Partners Program, which established guidelines for personanimal volunteer teams to qualify them to enter hospitals. nursing homes and other facilities. The Program registers teams that successfully complete health and temperament screening and volunteer training. AAA volunteers provide informal animal contact opportunities.

The Pet Partners Program was created by Delta Society, a nonprofit organization based near Seattle, WA that works to improve health and well-being by promoting mutually beneficial contact among people, animals and natw-e.

For more information on tl1e Delta Society. please contact them at 425-226-1351. For more information on Smokey 's visiting schcduJe. please contact Kristin Elliott Leas al 860434-1974, extension 14.

CONDOLENCES. .. on the loss of these good friends:

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rider Jordan Siborg Barbara Wanchak Robert Heller rider Robert Keim volunteer Monica Taggart

(Photo

Jordm,Siborg Credit She1lc:1Siborg)

CYNDIE GOULD V/SffS Cyndie Gould, Sis and Lytt 's daughter , generously shared her extensive horse training expertise with our staff and volunteers while visiting Connecticut in June. Much of Cyndie 's approach is based upon the teaching of Monty Roberts. The basic premise is that tl1ere needs lo be a 50/50 relationship between horse and rider. Both parties must respect one another and not take more than tl1eir 50%. Cyndie worked with Ben and had him respecting our "chicke n wings" rather than walking all over his handlers. Cyndie very generously donated her proceeds from this talk and the private sessions that followed to High Hopes.

WH4T THE FASHIONABLE RIDER WFAlllNG

a "down week" at High Hopes because of school vacations, but it surely was a very "up" experience for us as Carol gave us the GRAND TOUR of the beautiful new building and stables, and Kitty showed us The Swenson plaque and brought out Caleb for pictures which 1 have passed on to Betsy. She was so happy we had time to stop and visit High Hopes.

IS

by Kitty Stdsburg

When you're getting ready for your riding lesson , here are a few things to remember regarding clothing when riding or working around horses.

Thank you for so graciously meeting with us and introducing us to High Hopes. God bless you al/for this incredible facility and for the work and happiness if brings to so many and for the ways you care for these magnificent animals.

HEADGEAR : An ASTM-SEI approved helmet is mandatory .

These are located in our lounge for use by all participants. If you're planning to purchase your own, be_ sure_ that it fits correctly . Please ask any instructor for help m filtlng helmets .

Used helmets are not recommended as you may not be aware of the history of the helmet (i.e., previous impact, etc.)

Sincerely, Jeannette and Mike Zboray

***

FOOTWEAR : When riding in a saddle, the best protective footwear is that which is designed for riding, such as a paddock boot High Hopes has a limited number of these boots that can be borrowed . A traditional workboot or a hardsoled shoe with a heel will also offer protection when working around horses. If a rider is not using a saddle, sneakers may be permitted, especially if needed for AFOs, orthodics , etc., or when doing vaulting.

SANDALS ARE NEVER PERMITTED IN THE BARN AREA OR AROUND ANY HORSES .

Dear Givers of Great Gifts, How pleasantly surprised I was to have Patti Coyle hand me a "thank you" notebook organizer! You must know that the volunteers at HH love being there and are highly rewarded in doing so. Thanksfor the great gift !

Sue Lardner

***

PANTS : Breeches provide protection for the legs and prevent the chafing that may occur with long pants when they "ride up." A legging type of pant can also work. Nylon sport pants are not recommended, as they can be very slippery . Shorts, while seemingly appealing, can be very uncomfortabl e and may result in chafing with the bare skin against the horse or saddle.

Kitty and Patti, I want to thank you for coming up to NH and sharing with us, so comprehensively and wannly , your knowledge as well as NARHA 's collected wisdom. It was a very well run and sensitive training. You both show an amazing commitment doing this work and doing it well: how can any of us be good teachers without being lifelong learners? This workshop fonnat invited real learning.

OTHER: Dangly jewelry should be removed for safety prior to riding . Loose hair should be tied back to prevent entanglement. Cell phones , beepers and wallets should be left behind prior to getting on the horse. Perfume and cologne can be offens ive to the horse as well as other riders, and may attract unwanted insects.

Sincerely, Emily Arwen Mott

*** ~,,-,,,,~_,,.,,_....,,~

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CONGRA TUIA llONS. . .

to former High Hopes intern Katrina DeLeo on her ( engagement to Frank Manegio. to staff member Melissa Everett on winnin g the New England Writers Network Short Story Contest with her entry , "Darling Wendy." f ...to Ann and John Gardner on their marriage , and the move to their new home in Pennsylvania. (And congratulations to Asia and Maddie on their new ste~d, new house and new school t - not far from the Hershey chocolate factory!) l,,,#1r,,1~~, .. ,,,.~,~~#'/~~~...-,,,~l/1.~~,~~,,,,,,,,,,,~

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Dear Kitty,

1 , ' ,

I just wanted to say thank you.for helping organize such a fantastic Family Day last Saturday. It was so special and so much fun for the kids.

~

I especially wanted to say thank you for allowing Mark to be part of the event. You made 12 members of the Russo Family quite pleased - especially one very happy and proud Grandpa!

~

= j ~ ,

Seriously, I am so glad my family got to experience some of the magic of High Hopes, if only for a day!

WEGETLETTERS!

Thank you again, Michele Russo

Dear Kitty and Carol, Thank you for all the time the two of you were able to give to us whenwe stopped by on Thursday, April J8. You said it was

•••

Dear Kitty and Staff Thank you so much for spending time with me last week during my visit to High Hopes.

Your enthusiasm, professi onalism and generosity were evident in each and every one of you.

I truly appreciate yo ur time and I do hope yo u will come to visit our new faci lity in Monmouth County. NJ. Joy to yo u all, J eannie Seiffert

*** Dear Helene, What a great website! I shared it with everyone in my address book. It is a great way to share the news of High Hopes.

Everyone works so hard at High Hopes, not only the riders!

Thank you for being part of our fami~YStephani Cicco/ti

*** Thank you for providing my father with an ··enchanted " experience at High Hopes. Your loving and competent care gave him such joy. He loved the riding of course, but he adored all of you even more.

I am so grateful for the wonderful, magical time you each devoted to him.

NARHA Region l Representative . Always the professional, she often speaks at local colleges and functions as a representative of Therapeutic Riding and Recreational Therapy .

Bill left Maine at the age of 20 and spent six years as an engineer in the U.S. Navy , patrolling the waters off the Florida Keys and the Caribbean "in search of illegal drugs and protecting the nation from invading forces. " After leaving the Keys in 1988, he pointed his car toward Maine and home. As luck would have it, he stopped in Connecticut for a tank of gas and hasn 't left since . Bill has worked a myriad of jobs, including electronic tech, gunsmith, manufacturer , operations manager , co-inventor of a device that detennines if accelerants were used to start a fire, Assistant Facility Manager , and has now settled into the environmental field as the Associate Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Wesleyan University in Middletown . After joining High Hopes as a volunteer in 1996, Bill opted to take the NARHA Approved Instructor Training Course. He received certification as an Advanced Instructor , and is now the "Token Male Instructor " at High Hopes . He hopes to add Certification in Therapeutic Driving to his resume in the near future. He's a· long way from Maine but, as he puts it, "Ma and Pa are still expecting my return. " Bill and Dawn met through their involvement in High Hopes , in one of those indisputable coincidences that bring two random hearts together. Six years later , they have settled quite happily into married life, and spend their time horseback riding, kayaking and (according to Bill) "walking on clouds."

Bill sometimes comes down to Earth long enough to appear in community theatre productions and Dawn, as his # 1 fan, is always in the front row.

Sincerely, Barbara Keim (Editor's Note: Barbara 's f ather was rider Robert Keim.

"Team Keim " (Carolyn Jagielski, Chris Coyle, Melissa Everett and Domino) miss theirfearle ss leader immensely.)

STAFFPRORLES. . .

DAWN & BIU NELLIGAN Dawn grew up in Ohio and lived there until the age of 11, when her dad said somethin g about " moving where the horses are." Thirty seconds later. Dawn was packed and sitting in the car ready to go. After spending many hours in South Windsor horse barns, she made room in her equin e life for a Bachelor 's Degree of Science from UConn and Certification as a Therapeuti c Recreational Specialist. Dawn first came to High Hopes as an intern, and there she found a home that mixed the two loves of her life - horses and childr en. High Hopes just couldn ' t bear to let her go so. upon completion of her internship , she was hired as a Therapeutic Riding Instru ctor.

Today she continues to serve High Hopes as the Assistant Program Director. Dawn spends much of her time furthering NARHA ' s cause . and is a volunteer on the Standards Committee and a NARHA Site Visitor . She is also the Past

Billand Dawn Ne. iqan

SPOTllGHTON • • •

JASMINE AND FRISCO

At 16.l and with her Belgian/Thoroughbred bloodlines, this 20 year old is a hefty girl. "Jazz" is on free lease from a gentleman on Long Islandwho used her for Fox Hunting. (He wasField Master for five years.) She has a lot of training and has even done beginner novice eventing and hunter paces.

She's a darling girl, with a lovely personality.

WISHUST REQUESTS Yes, we know that the Wish List usually doesn't appear until Christmas, but there are just some things that the horses can't wait to ask for, andwe didn't want to disappoint them .. . ♦

Sprinkler system for the indoor arena

♦

Another set of bleachers

♦

Arena lights

♦

RemodeVexpansion of the equipment shed

♦

New footing for the arena

♦

Windowtreatments for the building

♦

Snow-removal equipment

♦

Disney 's "Horsemaster'' video

A SPEC/Al NOTE FROM KRISTIN..%1.sON, HIGH HOPESVOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Jasmine .

Cl'lloto Credit KristinElliott~)

Frisco's real name is "Frisco Pay," and he is an 11 year old, 15 handQuarter Horse bay gelding on free lease to us. Before coming to live at High Hopes, he was used for recreational riding and team penning. He has huge , soft ey~ and the sweetest personality. When feeling uncertairl about a situation, be looks to his handler for confidence. He hasn ' t quite figured out Julianna and her cart. He thinks she's being chased by it! He lives with Peanut, and relies on him to make surethateveiythingis okay.

I can hardly believe that nearly four months have passed since I started as your new Volunteer Coordinator. It has been a worthwhile challenge as I have had the opportunity to get to better know seasoned volunteers, and help start new volunteers off on the right foot here at High Hopes .

Our needs for volunteers increased nearly two-fold this summer , and I wish to thank all of you who helped meet those ~ - Scheduling of volunteers for fall classes and the Barn Program is well underway. If you have ~n a volunteer in the past and wish to rejoin us this fall , please call me at 860-4 341974, ext. 18 to set up your schedule. If you are interested in becoming a vobmteer for the first time , please call to register for one of the orientations listed above .

I wish to express my gratitude and thanks to all of our volunteers for their support, time and dedication.

Your smiling faces and helping hands brighten our days here at High Hopes!

VOLUNTEER PROFILE. . .

BrettAmold Brett was a coach for Team Connecticu t during the 1999 Special Olympics World Games for swimming. During break, he watched the equestrian competition and became hooked on horses and the benefits they can provide to people with special needs. Once his sched ule allowed him some free time, he chose High Hopes as the place to be.

In his time with us, Brett has helped with mornin g feedings and served as a horseleader in Holly Ridgway's Monday night classes . One of his greatest enjoyments has been learning

about horses and how they participate in the therapy for the rider. He works with Latino and says of that big boy, "He moves kind of slowly sometimes, which is all right for me. If I was a horse, I think he and I would be friends."

Brett recently completed a research project on the work we do at High Hopes, and received an A on it! During thi~ ~er, he will complete all of his requirements for graduation with a Masters in Special Education.

A life-long resident of Niantic, Brett spends a lot of time with his new chocolate lab puppy, Gus.

A few words from Brett: "I stress with all my students the importance of volunteering and helping people regardless of what their situation may be. I think if anything, volunteering teaches you humility and to be thankful for all the great gifts that you have, and to not take things for granted. I enjoy volunteering at High Hopes and coaching the Special Olympics swim team. I only wish more people would be willing to donate some of their time to help others. We all did not arrive on the same ship, but we are all in the same boat. "

Our volunteers are very special people. Your time, dedication and commitment are vital to our program. We recognize that you have a choice of where you volunteer, and we want to have you enjoy your experience at High Hopes to the fullest extent Our staff feels a sttong responsibility to provide each volunteer with an area of service that meets your individual needs. Likewise, we want to provide you with the knowledge and training to enable you to be an invaluable part of our therapeutic riding team.

The educational experience begins at the General Orientation session. During this two-hour introduction to High Hopes, volunteers gain an overview of our programs, facility and the volunteer role. Many volunteers return to a general orientati on session periodically to review basic information.

Additional educational opportunities for volunteers include:

Grooming and Tacking: Volunteers receive an in-depth, hands-on opportunity to uncover the mysteries of grooming and tacking. Commonly asked questions such as, "What is this brush for?" and "Is this how the bridle goes onT' will be addressed in an informal, small-group setting . (Note: You need to have attended a General Volunteer Orientation prior to this session.)

Horse Handling: Volunteers gain a better understanding of equine behavior , and review various horse handling techniques . General ring safety is addressed, as well as arena etiquette and emergency procedures. Emphasis is placed upon understanding how horse handling affects the rider and ensures the comfort of our program horses. (Note : You need to have attended a General Volunteer Orientation prior to this session, and be familiar with High Hopes grooming and tacking methods.)

Brett and Gus

VOLUNTEERS . ..

Vigil ant in their duti es; Offer other areas of expertise;

Le nd a helping hand;

Unsel.fish and giving; Nurture riders and their goals; Their time is dedicated toward a purpose: Enthusiastic participants; Endless patience and devotion; Respect and responsibility ; Special people!

Advanced Horse Handling: Volunteers gain additional horse handling skills such as long-lining, the movement dynamics of therapeutic riding, and the rationale behind choosing long lining as a handling technique. (You may take this session upon recommendation from a High Hopes instructor.)

Sidewalking Techniques: Volunteers are introduced to a variety of sidewalking techniques through hands-on, role playing and small group discussion . You will have the opportunity to expand your knowledge of disab~ties , develop handling and communication strategies , and mcrease your awareness of safety concerns. (You need to have attended a General Volunteer Orientation prior to this session .)

Tack n' Talk n' Tea: These ~ eekly meetings take place during the winter as a fun social event durin g which a lecture is given while we clean tack.

WELCOMENEW VOLUNTEERS! Please join us in welcoming these new members of the High Hopes volunteer family: Nathan Avery, Kate Baylis, George Becker, Lindsey Bolles, Lorri Bosio, Jean Calamari, Carolee Cannata, Tracy

WELCOMENEW VOLUNTEERS! Please join us in welcoming these new members of the High Hopes volunteer family: Nathan Avery, Kate Baylis, George Becker , Lindsey Bolles , Lorri Bosio, Jean Calamari, Carolee Cannata, Tracy Chambers , Kyle Dallas, Will Danenhower, Karen Danielson, Jessica Lyn Davis, Stephen Dedman, Emily Devoe, Michelle Eldridge , Tracey Gemmell, Pilar Gonzalez Jaime Guerrera, Lisa Gustafson, Kendall Hinman, AnnMarie Joy, Blair Kenney , Sawyer Kimball , Rochelle Lee, Bethany Long Conroy (welcome back!) , Sarah Loughlin, Amy Mak.lari, Kate Mallory , Moe McKeon, Brenda Moriarty , Emily Nadeau, Sharon Nadeau, Jeannie Newman , Eve O'Connor , Terry O'Hara, Sowmya Patu.ri, Devon Poeta, Ryan Pouliot, Kate Ridgway, Kathryn Roberts, Karen Saunders, Kimberly Severance, Helen Shelby, Sheila Siborg, Emily Smith , Emily Stagg, Amy Sullivan, Morgan Tedesche , Alan Todd, Janine Unghire (welcome back!), Monica Whelan, Jessica Wilson, Bethany Yombrick and Dawn Yombrick.

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THANKYOU'SARE DUE TO . ..

• •

The fol.ks from the United Church of Chester who volunteered their time and energy in our barn: Reverand George W. Easton, Colin Bernier, Ashley Davis , Shannon Faircloth, Josh Lawrie , Deborah Mcconnel~ Jim Ready, Tom Warner, and Kevin Williams .

The members of Pawing Pony 4-H Club who cleaned tack for our Horse Show: Debbie Goodrich, Anna GoodrichGotta, Jesse Goodrich-Gotta, Veronica Hay, Kayleigh Meyer , Lindsey Meyer, Emily Sandin, Alexandra Spencer , Alex Thomas , and Christine Thomas.

Tia Smith for 69 photo greeting cards for sale at the Horse Show.

John and Joan Hamrick for three bicycles , a snowblower and a stair stepper.

Todd Tuomi at CL&P for five ground poles and ground wire.

Lewis Levin for sewing all of our ripped feed bags.

Burt Dean for fixing what needs fixing and generally keeping an eye on us.

Grace Stalsburg for flowers and helping to keep our facility beautiful .

Patti Stalsburg for landscaping ability .

Diane Smith at CPTV for three CPTV Positively Connecticut books, a Positively Connecticut cap, and a CPTV Positively Connecticut video featuring High Hopes . All items were donated to the Horse Show Silent Auction .

Sally and Michael Aubrey for handmade toy boxes.

Kitty Stalsburg for a butterfly bush in memory of Jordan Siborg .

All Waste and Cooperman Fife and Drum for sawdust .

Ke! Tyler for six jump rails.

Erin Cain Zanardi and family for donating her brother George Cain 's pickup truck.

Clare Torelli for doing photography at the Horse Show.

0

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• • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Linda and Jaime Almeida for three sprinklers for the indoor arena .

Dorothy Morkis for lots and lots of wonderful stuff.

Suzie Birks and the Source Family for two buckets of Source.

Jan Brisco and the gang from Old Saybrook Youth and Family Services for all of their hard work at our facility: Sarah Allen, Peter Barrows, Alex Boulier. Michael Brown, Ryan Charles , Maggie Dunlap, Sara Ferrantzki , Patrick Gallagher, Jonathan Hamberg. Colleen Huysman, Laura Irwin, Melissa Jorgensen , Jacqueline Klimas.

Ashley Metz. Eric Pcholinski. Ryan Slobin. Jesse Trester , and Cathie Zampano.

Everyone at Lenny and Joe's Fish Tale for choosing High Hopes to be the recipient from a day on the Charity Carousel.

Dr. Dressler at Pfizer for 3,062 pounds of Strongid.

Petra Shearer for foam board and poster board, and for a "beeping ball" given in memory of Jordan Siborg.

John and Emma Driscoll for flowers and vegetable plants.

Stephen LaRue for a Pelham bit.

Tobacco Plaza in Old Saybrook for cigar boxes for our Summer Camp treasure box project.

Smoker 's Discount World in Salem for cigar boxes for our Summer Camp treasure box project.

Kim and Kelsey Rose Swan for two large packages of work gloves .

Collyn Herel for horse treats.

Lytt Gould for a pair of wellies and many books , games and puzzles.

Schering Corp . in Union. NJ for EWT vaccine.

Joe Elnisky for plastic birds for the Sensory Trail.

Jennifer Holland for tack. brushes. etc.

Marianne Weights for a trunk with hats. pants and pads.

Patti Coyle for rug cleaner. hand soap. cal food. cleaner. animal crackers and dish detergent.

Bill Nelligan for a Crafisman mower.

Oriharu and her favorit.c more Lady stn« d!eir stuff at the

Annual Horse Show

NARHA REGISTERED INSTRUCTOR ONâ&#x20AC;¢SiTE WORKSHOP AND

CERTIFICATION PROGRAM INSTRUCTORWoRksJ-top DECEMbER ON..-Sin

8 & 9, 2002

CERTificATioN

DECEMbER

PROGRAM

10, 2002

WiTH

Kiny S1AlsbuRG NARHAMASTER INSTRUCTOR PnoqRAMDinECTORATHiqH HopEs lHERApEuTicRidiNG, INC. NARHAEvAIUATOR

PAni CoylE NARHAAdvANCEdINSTRUCTOR NARHACoNNECTiCUT REGiONAI Co,CHAiR NARHAAssociATEEvAIUATOR Fon MOREiNfORMATiON, plEASECONTACT: HIGH HOPES THERAPEUTIC RIDING

36 Town Woods Road, PO Box 254 Old Lyme, CT 06371 860-434-1974 FAX 860-434-3723 www.highhopestr.org kstalsburg @highhopestr .org ~stration

Deadline: No~ember 18. 2002

HIGH HOPES BOARDAND STAFF Honorary Board Members Lyttleton B. P. Gould, Jr. frank Hamilton, Jr. Grace Hamilton Wayne Southwick, M.D. Staff

'son :U.foster <i!H. "Koko" Gildersleeve ~igh Harrison :Irving, M.D. ~,Kingsley ,~ightfoot 0

Potts hard ;Smith ;Tyler

Alison Zack Darrell, Executive Director Kitty Stalsburg, Program Director Helene Fenger, Director of Development Petra Shearer, Business Manager Kristin Elliott Leas, Barn Manager Dawn Nelligan, Assistant Program Director Kristin Mason, Volunteer Coordinator Melissa Everett, Program Administrator Judie Driscoll, Administrative Assistant Barbara Abrams, Instructor Patti Coyle, Instructor Jonnie Edwards, Instructor Carol Gilchrist, Instructor BillNelligan, Instructor Holly Ridgway, Instructor Erica Stachura, Instructor Carolyn Jagielski, Physical Therapist Margaret Drummond, Bam Assistant Linda Almeida, Barn Staff Carol Brining, Barn Staff/Admin. Assistant Heather Rice, Bam Staff John Driscoll, Caretaker

This newsletter is 1.mderwritten by

HIGH HOPES UPGRAOESAOASTANDARDS

HIGH HOPESGOESA-SHOWIN'!

by Heather uigh Harriso n The recent expansion and renovation efforts at High Hopes are not only pleasing to the eye, but also pleasing to the wheels!

For those of us who use wheelchairs , that is!

Equal with the desire to expand facility capa city was High Hopes ' desire to make itself more accessible to people with disabilities. The majority of barriers existing in the old facility were for people with mobility impairments (43% of our participants). With this in mind, the High Hopes staff and Board worked conscientiously with Centerbrook Architects and Essex Commerical Construction to remove these barriers and further increase the accessibility of our site.

The problem areas were identified through use of the Americans with Disabilities Act Architectural Guidelines (ADAAG) , Connecticut State Building Code, and consultation with individuals with disabilities. Thankfully, High Hopes was able to accomplish most of the improvements on the list during this initial expansion. Only a few items remain on the long-term plan.

A few of the improvements that you might like to check out are: ✓ Main entrance automatic doors ✓ Grab bars in all restrooms ✓ Fully accessible restroom (located near the classroom) with a transfer shower ✓ Level-style doorknobs ✓ Receptionist area can be accessed from a wheelchair (come see intern Landon Potts put it to use!) ✓ Visual fire alarms ✓ Accessible parking spaces for modified vans All of these improvements are part of High Hopes' compliance with Federal and State guidelines regulating access for people with disabilities. Above and beyond that, they enhance our ability to serve our riders and their families.

We have heard from riders that the recent changes have enabled them to use our facility more independently than ever before. I know for myself that the ability to park my van and be assured that I'll have the necessary space next to it to open the ramp , makes my whole experience at High Hopes more relaxed and enjoyable . The new facility really had a chance to shine during the NARHA Region I Conference this spring.

High Hopes was very proud of our ability to accommodate over 100 people , some with additional equipment and service dogs, for that weekend .

There is still work to be don e. We are hopeful that continued fundrai sing will enable High Hopes to make further improvements . The facility is well on the way to being an excellent example of what it means to be a premiere therapeutic riding facility in the nation .

(Editor's Note: Heather is a member of the High Hopes Board of Directors, as well as a rider.)

On a beautiful sunny morning in July, young gentlemen Andrew Keefe and Alexander Lehe~ arrived with their families at Freedom Farm in Jericho, VT. This very special farm was the location of the first annual New England Equestrian Festival organized by the American Competition Opportunities for Riders with Disabilities, Inc. (ACORD).

ACORD , located in San Jose, CA, has a long history of organizing quality, safe horse shows and, believe us, that ain't just advertising! F.ach ring (there was a total of six) had its own safety coordinator!

This show was much like the typical New England open horse show, drawing around 100 horses and participants from the ages of 8 to 80. What made it extra special is that it also included an entire division of riders with disabilities. Events of the day were scheduled as Western and English Equitation, Pleasure, Obstacle/frail, Pole Bending, Relay, Hunter Hack, Costume, Showmanship/In Hand Driving and (something none of us had ever seen before) donkey and mules jumping fences (they call it 'Coon Jumping').

The excitement on Friday was obvious when our young competitors were introduced to their borrowed mounts for the first time. Andrew was sized up with a four year old Quarter Horse named Grey Fox, and Alex rode Dust-0-Magic (nicknamed "Hoover" by Bill) , also a young Quarter Horse.

After getting acquainted with our horses, Malge Kittredge of Windrush Fann in Massachusetts helped us in her role as Horse Master as we mounted the riders and turned them over to Marge for testing.

Starting out on a new horse in a new barn in a different state with an unfamiliar instructor and people you've never seen before looking on can be quite a distraction. Our two equestrians made it look easy! Not only did both Alex and Andrew immediately go off lead, but were soon trotting around the arena, walking, and whoaing on command! There were ten competitors in our division, several of whom had prior horse show experience and one who is gearing up for the Para Olympics. Not to be deterred, our plucky riders ended their warm-up session, dismounted, bid farewell to their horses . . . and began practicing figure eights in the parking lot.

Our first class was called at 9:30 on Saturday morning, and we mounted our well-dressed showmen for Equitation Intennediate Trot. (Thanks to the Equestrian Centre of Avon and Tally Ho Tack Shop of Essex .)

With only four participants , judging must have been difficult. Our heroes placed very well for their first event in their very first ever show - Alex in Second and Andrew in Third.

After being pinned and individuall y congratulated by the judge, the boys moved on . to the Trail Riding Competition.

This was a typical obstacle course with ground poles, owe, jump standards, barrels to circle and 1 coop in which to finish.

Alex's smooth transitions from hall SP,atto trot to walk to

steering in and out of the standards earned him Second place out of eight participants. Andrew's mount tended to stop at each flower pot to taste the Dracaena Spike placed strategically in the center of each pot. Andrew eventually managed to get him to pay attention , and he rode into a welldeserved Third place .

The last event was Pole Bending. This is an event judged on speed and neatness , comprised of trottin g down the outside of six cones spaced evenly apart, walking back through in a zigzag pattern, trotting down inside the cones , and then zigzagging back at the walk. Andrew won Second out of eight participants . Upon finishing his run, Alex raised his hands in the air and shouted "I did it!" .. . and, boy , did he! Alex placed First in the division.

It was truly a magical day. Our riders participated in each event uncoached and off lead, and they were amply rewarded for a wonderful job and excellent showmanship . To Alex and Andrew's families: 1HANK YOU for sitting through the dust and barking dogs. Your show of support to your sons, and to High Hopes, is a wonderful gift. (Next year , we hear the event may be staged in Massachusetts. With it that close to home, we'll have to see about getting more competition to sign up!)

LANDON- THENAND NOW

by Nancy Potts Landon began riding at High Hopes (then LCVERA) in the 1980s when she was 4 years old. At the time , doctors believed that she had cerebral palsy, and she had been undergoing traditional physical therapy sessions on a daily basis with either her physical therapist or me for more than two years.

Though she rarely complained, she found the therapy sessions rather boring and never really looked forward to them, no matter how many ruses were used to make them seem more entertaining. But from the moment she first mounted a pony at High Hopes (I believe Sylvia was her first mount) , she loved riding and just being around the horses and people.

Landon's therapist and I both noticed a significant relaxation of her adductor muscles after riding, which lasted longer than it did after her traditional therapy sessions . Most of all , Landon was having .fl]N! The experience of controlling such a large animal did wonders for her self-confidence , and she was participating in a sport that even her brothers didn ' t know how to do! As she began to feel more comfortable , she even began to open up and talk with her sidewalkers and other High Hopes volunteers and riders , which was a big step as she tended to be rather shy.

Over the years, Landon enjoyed riding different horses and ponies. Her favorites were Sylvia , Romey and Touchstone, but she loved all of them. She particularly enjoyed the trail rides in pretty weather, dressing up in costume at Halloween , and the Horse Show in June. One of the highlights of her High Hopes experience was being asked to ride Apple for the opening of the new Baldwin Bridge . There were also several television news spots in which Landon was the "star ," and she loved seeing herself on TV . She did on~ news spot with

Morley Safer, and one with another TV personality who rode around the ring with her on another horse , making her feel very grown up .

Eventually, Landon stopped riding as her homework load became greater and there were more demands on her time. It was also decided that her balance was too tenuous for her to be able to canter , and Landon needed more of a challenge than just walking and trotting to hold her interest. In addition, she began to develop an aller gy to horses . Her love of horses has lasted, however , as have her wonderful memories of the time she spent at High Hopes .

Landon 's dad Rives and I feel incredibly fortunate to have become involved with all the wonderful people at High Hopes.

I had ridden most of my life. and had friends who had been volunteers at other therapeutic riding programs, but until I had a child with special needs. I had never really known much about hippotherapy. A moving Reader 's Digest article about Jenny Hotchkiss and LCVERA in the 1980s piqued my interest , and when I found tl1at Jenny 's sister was married to one of Rivcs 's co-workers. it just seemed like Fate . We signed Landon up shortly afterwards , and have been rewarded many times over by our association with High Hopes and its many dedicated volunteers. staff members. riders and their parents.

Landon rode at High Hopes for about ten years . In addition to relaxing her muscles and improving her balance , coordination and strcngtlt. riding has enhanced Landon 's outlook about her physical potential. There arc very few things that she will not at least try , and I tl1ink the success she experienced in riding at High Hopes contributed cnonnously to that confidence. We have watched proudly as she has blossomed into an accomplished young woman with a greal deal of self-esteem.

She graduated from a competitive private high school with honors , and has completed her first year of college , far away from home for the first time . with a 4 .0 average . She is now transferring to Quinnipiac . and is excited and confident about tackling that goal as well.

Somehow it seems entirely fitting that her first swnmer job is at High Hopes . Many of the same people who helped her in her early riding endeavors arc now helping to introduce her to anoth er facet of life , and gain confidence in the working world . She says to Rives and me all the time. "Eve ryone at High Hopes is so nice! " We knew t11atall along!

Landon Then

High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc. P.O. Box 254 Old Lyme, CT 06371

Thursday, September 5 Wednesday, September 18 Saturday, September 28 Sunday, October 6 Wednesday, October 23 Friday, November 1 Wednesday, Novem ber 20 to Saturday, November 23 Thursday, November 28 Friday, November 29 Saturday, November 30 Saturday, December 7 Saturday, December 14 Tuesday, December 24 Wednesday, December 25 -

Fall Program Begins General Volunteer Orientation Lord Creek Hunter Pace High Hopes Annual Meeting General Volunteer Orientation Lord Creek Farm Horse Tr ials NO CLASSES! THANKSGIVING! Office Is closed Day after Thanksgiving.

Office is closed. NO CLASSES! NO CLASSES! Fall Program Ends High Hopes Holiday Party! Noon to 2:0 0 pm Office closed CHRISTMAS! Office Is closed