Ohio Horseman’s Council

Member of American Horse Council

ohconline.com

SECRETARY

Ranee Vititoe 740/505-2713 secretary@ohconline.com

TREASURER

Jo Ellen Reikowski 330/806-3146 treasurer@ohconline.com

MEMBERSHIP

Catherine Estill 513/319-2517 membership@ohconline.com

PRESIDENT

Eric Estill 513/266-9823 president@ohconline.com

VICE PRESIDENT

Nancy Strayer 740/694-1007 vicepresident@ohconline.com

OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR

Martie Ackerman 713/553-9644 countylineeditor@ohconline.com

Greetings From Your President

This time of year, many of us are working on the horse trails. The grass and weeds are growing fast and the trees that fall seem to be attracted to the horse trails. Many of us use chain saws to remove down trees. I’d like to comment on chain saw safety. Too often, I see people using chain saws without safety equipment. Here is a picture of my chainsaw outfit.

OSHA’s Chain Saw Safety Quickcard says: “Proper personal protective equipment must be worn when operating the saw, which includes hand, foot, leg, eye, face, hearing and head protection.”

I recommend using: • A hard hat or helmet • Hearing protection: Ear plugs or over the ear hearing protection • Safety glasses, goggles, or a full-face shield (I use both safety glasses and a face shield) • Heavy work gloves, or even better, gloves made with Kevlar fiber • Chain saw chaps • Heavy work boots

I realize that all this equipment costs money, but consider the cost of a chain saw injury: ambulance ride, ER visit, lost time during recovery, and in some cases, permanent disability or even loss of life.

Proper safety equipment can be found at any store that sells chain saws, home improvement stores like Lowes and Home Depot. Amazon. com carries a full list of safety equipment at reasonable prices.

~Eric Estill, President

County Lines

ASHTABULA

Hello from Ashtabula County. Did you know we are Ohio’s sharpest county? It has been beautiful up here along Lake Erie. The downside is that our county has the highest number of reportable cases of Covid. I dread putting a mask back on, but I will once again mask and carry on because of my latest health issue. One of my friends was so very cautious and has just tested positive.

Our chapter had two more horse shows scheduled. The first was held on June 11 and the next will be on July 9. We will announce the buckle winners in the August Corral.

June 4 was National Trail day. We had a chapter ride in the gulf and shared a potluck at the end. Thank you, Jessica Sheets, our event coordinator, for organizing that.

We have eight new members. I haven’t gotten names yet, but I will introduce them next month. The members’ names should be in the September issue of the Corral, along with a firm date for our Christmas party.

Mike and Jessica Sheets are very proud grandparents of a beautiful little girl. Their first grandchild. Congratulations!

Now that we have our June meeting behind us, we have some events planned for this season.

But, before I move on to what we have planned, I want to say thank you to Mike McIntyre for taking over the job of mileage. He has all of our names on a spreadsheet, and he has asked each member to email him at river_runner75@hotmail.com on a weekly basis with the miles you have ridden. When the riding season is over, he will compile the mileage and submit the totals. Maintenance mileage is counted as well. Maintenance hours begin when you get your tools together until you arrive back home. You should also keep track of the machine/tool hours. Keep those hours separate and report them to Mike the same way.

We have a horse show scheduled on July 24 with a rain date of July 31. It will be happening at the Pierpont Fire Hall arena.

In August we plan to go as a group to Tri Co for their annual Ox and Pig Roast.

Our regional Ride/Dice ride will be on Oct. 9 in the Ashtabula Gulf. It will once again be ‘Pay to Play’. If you want to roll the dice, it will be $20 in advance or $25 the day of the ride. If you are going, bring your registration to the July meeting. This is the paid ride. If you work an event, the club pays the fee. Put us on your schedule and join us.

June 12 was the ‘Celebration of Life’ memorial ride for Dick Johnston. He passed away on Feb. 4 after a long struggle with Alzheimers. It was held at Hatches Corner Metro Park. ’Til next time, give thanks for all the good things and give your horse a hug.

~Pearl Ann

CLARK

As I write this month’s Corral the weather report is forecasting sunshine and heat. Maybe the trails will have a chance to dry out. Of course that hasn’t stopped us from riding on days that it hasn’t been storming. I enjoyed my first trail ride at Sycamore State Park with a friend and hope to return soon.

The Clark County camp out at Buck Creek was a big success even with the rain on Friday evening. The rain held off for everyone to get some miles accumulated. Chris Price supplied a TV and we were able to watch the Kentucky Derby upset. What a finish! It’s so uplifting to know that anything can still happen if you try hard enough and put in the work. We all enjoyed a potluck which included homemade spaghetti sauce, Kentucky hot browns, fresh fudge and a blazing fire. There were lots of stories told and memories made.

One of the big storms blew over a tree that was the biggest I have ever seen blocking a trail. Chris Price chain sawed the tree into pieces to be removed in the future and also created a path so that we could go around for the present time. Thanks for all that hard work Chris! We will schedule a time in the future to move the remainder.

June 4 was National Trail Day

Kentucky Derby

Campfire fun.

Isaac New gravel path near The Curves.

Improvement near Widen Chasm.

and I hope many of you were on the trails. I was in a gaiting clinic that day and not able to be on the trails. It was another action packed clinic at Helges Horse training. He makes every second count with training methods and obstacles. I had never thought of backing my horse up a hill... genius! Annie keeps getting better and better.

Our July meeting will be at the Buck Creek shelter house July 13 at 6:30 p.m.

Come ride with Clark County! ~Jonna

COSHOCTON

Hello July! We are full swing into summer and with summer, come bees. If you encounter any while at Fallon please let a club member know what trail and try to mark the area. We will do our best to get rid of them.

I will have the results of our June poker ride in the August article. We have cleared trees off the trail, mowed, put screenings under the high lines and ran the weed eater under the picnic tables to prepare for our fun day.

I’ll have more information in the next Corral about our annual hog roast in September. You can also find out what is going on with our club on our Facebook page. ~Gigi

CRAWFORD

Hello from Crawford County. We have a few still riding. We spent the Memorial Day weekend at the Ranger Camp Ground at Oak Openings. The Cowboy’s for Christ were there and we had a great time around the camp fire. We rode about 23 miles in three days and the trails were in great shape as always. The sand really gives the horses a workout.

We will be riding the trails at local parks, Mohican, Malabar and Pleasant Hill due to the high gas prices this year. Also, Alum Creek and Hocking Hills is on our list of favorite places to ride.

Be kind to your horses and stay safe. See you on the trails throughout Ohio.

~J. Zaebst

DEFIANCE

Happy Trails to everyone out there! I am sure that everyone is out enjoying the beautiful weather and riding gorgeous trails.

The Defiance County OHC has had a busy month already and it is only the beginning of June! We wrapped up the annual Just For Fun Horse Show with a great turn out. This year we featured a class for riders with disabilities, and Lilly Creek Farms came through with a few of their clients. Oh and talk about some happy faces! Pictured is Isaac, who left the show with trophies, ribbons and a huge smile on his face that was priceless! Great job Isaac and to Lilly Creek Therapeutic Riding Center for bringing him, among others, for this opportunity!

Another of our members spent the beautiful weekend in Hocking Hills. Member Rebecca Schlegel and Sargent took full advantage of the weather and the trails. Several other members helped with trail riding at Harry Hughes/Oak Openings.

The group also hosted a glamour shots weekend at the Van Buren Park in May complete with facials, chocolate covered strawberries and wine. There are so many beautiful pictures to choose from, so I had to close my eyes and put a finger on one. This is club member Patty Solak, with her buddy!

Our next adventure will be our club camping trip to the Bluff’s in Camden, Mich., this coming weekend, with a potluck and a couple days of fellowship and stories around the campfire, relaxing and trail riding.

Cheers to all of our friends and four legged’s to getting out there and enjoying what we love to do! Until next time, be safe, have fun and enjoy!

~Michelle Cogswell

DELAWARE

Greetings, we hope you had a happy July 4th from your friends in Delaware Chapter!

If you have had the opportunity to ride our bridle trails at Alum Creek State Park, specifically our Winterhawk West trail, then you have experienced the wonderful improvements that were accomplished during one of our special workdays held on May 19 in addition to our regular Tuesday mornings.

A local landowner and IGS Energy executive, Dave Mrowzinski, had approached us earlier this year asking if we would like to participate in his company’s volunteer day on May 19 to which we responded with a resounding, “Yes”. Three major projects all on Winterhawk West trail were selected. With the help of employee volunteers from IGS Energy, our trail volunteers spread out to work on ‘The Curves Project’—a particularly muddy section of trail just north of The Curves, the complete reboarding of Kim’s platform —our 2022 OHC matching grant project, along with the replacement of several rotten boards on nearby Paul’s Path, and last, but not least, improvement of the creek crossing after Widen Chasm. Our chapter would like to extend a sincere thank you to Dave Mrowzinski and all the employees from IGS Energy who spent their volunteer service day with us at Alum Creek. Including their efforts, a total of 260.5 hours of trail maintenance was accomplished in the month of May for a total value of $7,435. All equestrians and other trail users will appreciate the work that has been accomplished!

Congratulations to our five club members who recently received awards for their trail mileage and/or saddle hour achievements: Vanessa Norton (earning her 500-mile patch), Alissa Clouse (earning her 200mile patch), Mike Shott (earning his 200-saddle hours patch), Sherry Chambers (earning her 500-saddle hours patch), and Dan Chambers (earning his 2021 OHC Top 10 Saddle Hours Award). Do not forget to turn in your monthly totals of mileage and/or saddle hours to Theresa. In addition, please keep track of any time spent doing trail maintenance even while you are riding. We encourage our equestrian visitors to carry along a pruner, for example, and help us by trimming back those pesky branches that like to swat riders

Completed new Kims Platform.

in the face! Your contributions can be reported to Bobbi Arters, our secretary, or posted on our Delaware Facebook page.

Last month’s meeting featured equine veterinarian, Dr. Jim Chase, who shared his knowledge and expertise regarding equine first-aid topics and essential items to include in your first-aid kit. We extend a big thank you to Dr. Chase for a very informative presentation! This meeting featured our largest attendance yet and was held at our new chapter meeting ‘home’, Kilbourne United Methodist Church.

Join us for our Friday, July 8 chapter meeting beginning at 7 p.m. We are excited to have the opportunity to meet at one of Kilbourne’s newest establishments, Henmick’s Farm and Brewery, 4380 North Old State Road, Delaware, Ohio. Owner Mr. Nick Sheets will share with us his plans for creating a connector trail from Winterhawk West/SR 521 to his establishment plus a designated fenced area complete with horse ties for his horseback riding patrons. If weather conditions are favorable, this project hopefully will already have been completed in time for our meeting. Come early to enjoy the onsite food trucks and libations at this family-friendly place.

Sneak preview: our Friday, Aug. 5 meeting will feature a visit from Ms. Shelly Privett and her miniature therapy mare, Poppy. Shelly and Poppy will share their experiences as a therapy pet as well as topics pertaining to miniature horse care in general.

Later in August, our chapter will hold our third annual Trail Obstacle Fun Day on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. This fun event will take place at Brenda Webster’s Black Swan Farm, Ostrander, Ohio. $10 per person (non-refundable). Due to parking space limitations, approximately 10 rigs will need to be our limit, (perhaps more if 2H trailers) so if you can haul an additional horse for someone who would like to attend, please do so! Advance registration will be required so look for details coming soon to our Facebook page and membership email.

Lastly, our chapter is looking forward to hosting our annual Autumn at Alum Trail Ride and Campout slated for Friday, Sept. 9 through Sunday, Sept. 11. If you would like to camp overnight, now is the time to go to www.reserveohio.com to obtain your camping reservation. Day riders and guests are always welcome and encouraged.

Come join us in Delaware Chapter! We look forward to seeing you!

~Theresa Burke

ERIE

Greetings from Erie County! The weather has been great! Trail riding, graduations and fairs are on the agenda.

Lynn and Tim made their annual spring trip to Brown County. I heard the rain made it a relaxing camp out with little riding. Trails that were available were pretty muddy, stealing the shoes off of horses that ventured on them. Many of us had reserved sites at Pleasant Hill on Memorial Day weekend. The weather has traditionally been pretty nice. It started to rain Friday. My husband and I tossed around whether to go or wait until Saturday morning! We left about noon, leaving the kayaks home. We arrived in the park just as the rain started to slow down and stop. The weather promised to be great riding. We got our first ride on Saturday morning. My new horse, Thunder, did great.

The campground started filling up as the day went on, 70 degrees and lake breezes made for a perfect weekend. It was good seeing old friends and meeting new ones.

The first Saturday in June was National Trail Day! What great weather and turnout at Edison Woods Metro Park! Because it was a Bingo check off, I was seeing pictures of friends riding all over Ohio. It was definitely a successful event!

July promises us great campouts this month. Reed Road Wranglers at Oak Openings is scheduled for July 8-10. Camping at Edison Woods on Smokey Road is scheduled for July 23. Life is better on the trail!

Pleasant Hill

~Shelley

FAIRFIELD

We just finished up Memorial Day, so it’s official, summer is here. Our first ride of the year was scheduled at Salt Fork a few weeks back but consistent rains on Friday and Saturday canceled it. Individually and in small groups our members have been out in full force logging trail miles. Hopefully the remainder of our scheduled rides this summer will go off without a hitch.

Our clubs main money making project came off the middle of May with only a couple of glitches. Our members volunteer their time to assist with the management of the All American Youth Horse Show at the Columbus fairgrounds. We check in the youth competitors for their classes, open and close gates to the arena and whatever else needs done to help the show run as smoothly as possible. In return, our club is compensated. As all clubs, we then use that money for club projects. It’s a four-day event which requires several people, but with enough participation from our members, no one gets abused too badly. The main glitch came on the Thursday evening shift. That shift started at 4 p.m., with normal quitting time around 8 p.m. There were some Fairfield County OHC

issues at the main coliseum, so classes were moved to where our people were working in Cooper Arena. Then a couple delays took place as well. Long story short, my crew that night locked the gates and headed home at 12:15 a.m. I did not hear one person complain, although by the time they got home it was 1:30 a.m. It was a very short night for a couple of them who had to work early on Friday. That is the nature of a horse show I was told. To finish up this topic, the entry numbers were up and the youth came from states as far away as Minnesota and New York as well as all of the states connected to Ohio. Maybe Covid is behind us and life is returning to normal.

I mentioned scheduled trail rides earlier. Over the Memorial Day weekend our club rode at Hocking State Forest. We had a great turn out with 14 or 15 trailers camping for the weekend. The weather man blessed us with more than enough rain on Thursday and Friday, but Saturday through Monday turned sunny and beautiful. The trails were a little muddy in spots, but as a whole not bad at all. On Saturday evening, we enjoyed a community meal with around 30 members and guests in attendance. Bryan Black, a member, blessed us with some old time country music. If you know Bryan, ask him to play the long john song. Guarantee you have not heard it. Flat out funny,

you will enjoy it. A side note on this subject. You can find our ride schedule at our web page by googling, ffohc.com. Look under calendar. We welcome guest at all of our rides. If you see us riding and can work it into your schedule, come ride with us. Been a long time since we shot an outsider. That’s all for now. ~Chris

FRANKLIN

While Franklin County OHC is one of the smaller chapters, we are trying. Dana Stewart put together a FCOHC schedule which we appreciate. TBD is an open statement that the actual date has not been set.

One of our events, a Chiropractic demonstration by Dr. Ian Giachetti, arranged by Angela Logan, was May 21 at Appaloosa Run Stables, Granville, Ohio. It was reasonably well attended and Dr. G was very informative and did an excellent job. I had two of my horses adjusted and we all were impressed when he pointed out a bump on the back of my horse Coal, that has been there a long time, and which disappeared after his adjustment. This horse gaits but was just not the same as times past. Now he is back! Numerous horses were brought out from the stable and on one we heard the ‘pop’ as the joint snapped back into place. Dr. G explained that this horse had a touch of arthritis. We highly recommend Dr. G when you next need your horse put back in top shape. Dr. G’s contact information is dr.ian.riverside@ gmail.com or 419/707-2133. We want to thank both Dr. G for his time and effort and Appaloosa Run Stables for allowing us to meet there.

Our next event is a field trip to Slate Run Municipal Park where we will tour the 1800 vintage farm and visit the horse trails located there. If we all meet there at 2 p.m. July 9 at Slate Run parking lot, tour the 1800’s farm, visit the equestrian day parking area and review both proposed and existing trails, and then move the meeting to a restaurant down the road, we all can enjoy a friendly meeting.

August 13 we are sponsoring an obstacle course at Rocky Fork Municipal Park. Bring your horse and enjoy a leisurely ride while negotiating a couple of obstacles put there for your pleasure. First horse out at 10:30 a.m., last horse out at 1 p.m. We always need time to set up and tear down.

Due to the continuing pandemic; we continue to meet via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. We hope to get back into a restaurant where we can enjoy good food and each other’s company! ~Terry L. Baker

Dr. Ian Giachetti

FULTON

The first showcase ride of the NW region, in recognition of the 50th anniversary of OHC, was held June 4 at Oak Openings and the Maumee State Forest. Over 50 people rode our wonderful trails and the weather was perfect. Jack and Art grilled hot dogs and sausage and fed over 50 people. It was great to see riders from all seven counties of our region which includes Allen, Defiance, Erie, Fulton, Hancock, Sandusky and Wood Counties. We expect to participate in the other regional showcase rides that have been planned for this year.

Speaking of Oak Openings, there have been some changes that may or may not impact horse riders. The vault toilets have been removed from the Jeffers Road rider center, Springbrook camp area and Evergreen Lake rider rest stop. Porta johns have been installed at the rider center and Springbrook. There’s nothing near the lake stop yet so plan accordingly. That’s the one that I always count on! And the park is trying a land management project which includes grazing cattle on a 10 acre parcel within the park. I haven’t spotted them yet but some people say they have heard them and it was strange!

The month of May was the beginning of camping season for many of our members. A small group went to The Bluffs in Camden, Mich., on May 1315. Reed Road was full two weeks later while a small group went to Red Hill Horse Camp in Livingston, Ky. All reports were that the trips and trails were fantastic. Our adventures continue with trips planned to Caesar Creek, Pleasant Hill Lake, Mohican and Come Again Horse Camp in Leavenworth, Ind., in the foreseeable future. Also planned are later trips to Van Buren as well as some of the state rides and Big Elk Lick in Benezette, Pa.

If you are curious about what we’re up to in real time, check our website, fcohc.com, Facebook group Fulton County OHC or Facebook page Fulton County Ohio Horseman’s Council. Come see us at our chapter meetings which are usually on the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. and are currently held in the banquet room at The Bunker Bar in Holland. Anyone and everyone is always welcome.

We hope you all are well and safe and we look forward to seeing you on the trails!

~Kathy

GEAUGA

A big shout out to all those who worked so very hard to pull the invasive garlic mustard weed at West Woods on May 10. Dottie Drockton is fantastic at organizing and leading us in an effort to help keep Geauga horse trails beautiful. The pizza was great!

Speaking of great, how about the GOHC annual banquet that was held on May 14. We had amazing food, unbelievable donations for the raffle and remarkable members who put an extraordinary fun evening together. This was all lead by Christina Monaghan and her committee. Super job to all of you.

On May 21 nine riders enjoyed the trails for the annual Nora 2022 GOHC banquet.

Garlic mustard pull.

Stanton Memorial Ride at West Woods. A luncheon was held at Mangia Mangia following the ride to celebrate members 2021 accomplishments. Lottery drawings and trail milestone patches were distributed. Congratulations to Beth Liff and Dianne Smith who achieved their 5000 lifetime miles.

There are many events up and coming. Here is a list of just a few. July 12 will be a massage clinic, Aug. 9 is hay testing, and do not forget how much we need your help on ideas and creativity for the Great Geauga County Fair booth set up on Aug. 30.

Be kind, be determined, be brave, be confident, be you. ~Cec

GREENE

I’m writing this about a week before our state ride, so there isn’t a lot of news yet. If you missed the event, I’m sure you missed out. We always have a great time. We never know what Mother Nature is going to throw at us, but we manage regardless.

Speaking of Mother Nature, she has been keeping Dave, Jerry and Devin busy mowing at Caesar Ford. And Jeannie busy taking photos for me and making sure the guys get fed while they’re working (always a good thing!). I’m including a couple of photos she sent me of them ready to get to work. I’m also including one she sent me of the Jeans and Jodhpurs 4-H group at TSC one day, advertising for their club. It was pretty chilly that day, but they persevered. Always good to see the kids out spreading the word.

I’m really hoping that Kandy

Jerry Smith and Dave Goodbar.

Jeans and Jodphurs 4-H.

Devin Nicol

and I can get out soon and ride. We had hoped to one week, but then it got very hot very fast, and since Cooper and I are both out of shape, I didn’t want to start out with that. I’m sure we’ll manage one of these days! We used to ride together quite a lot, but the last few years it just hasn’t worked out. Gotta work on that...I know Dave has been riding a lot, and several other members have been joining him (sometimes on his mules; photos of those coming another month). ‘Ride a mule’ is one of the Bingo squares so they’ve all got that one crossed off now.

Nothing more going on right now, at least as far as I know. Next month we’re sure to have state ride photos. Stay cool! ~Mickie

GUERNSEY

I sure wish we had one of those Redo buttons! We only thought we were done with trail work this year. Around May 3, a huge storm with multiple sheer-wind down bursts hit Salt Fork State Park. The Blue Trail was hit the worst. Two spots were so bad we rerouted around the downed trees, for now. When we do our annual trail work this winter, we will tie into them and restore the trail. In both spots the trees were massive with some limbs in excess of 24 inches in diameter, and laying right on the trail!

The Purple Trail, (see the pictures), had two really bad spots. The spot in the picture was at the 2-mile marker. There were nine trees in one pile and the pile was 20 feet high. There was no way to re-route around the trees, so we had no choice but cut our way through. Two of the trees were 24 inches in diameter and the rest were eight to ten inches. Dave and I spent three and a half hours on that pile. Just 100 feet down the trail there were three trees across the trail and another 100 feet down the trail there was a pile of five trees on the trail. We spent four and a half hours on that 200-foot section of trail! There was another huge pile of trees at the 8-mile marker.

Oddly enough though, there was only one tiny tree on the White TrailB Loop. The White Trail A Loop was a different story. It had quite a few down and we spent nine hours on the trail. The Red Trail and the Orange Trail still are not done! When? Unknown.

Personally, I’ve spent the last two weeks in the hay field. Finally, after seven consecutive wet years, I was able to make hay

Salt Fork State Park

in May and June. I have 20 acres to go. I just need another four-day window and the weather man’s permission! I had to come down out of the hay mow, at one point in time, to cool off! A neighbor was putting the bales on the elevator and I was stacking them.

I’m not sure when I’ll have time to ride Ben at Salt Fork again. I have a long to-do list for the farm for this summer.

See you on the trail, ~Lee Randolph

HARRISON

Hello to everyone from Harrison County! The Harrison County chapter met on May 19 at the Ranch to Table Restaurant in Cadiz, Ohio. Close to 13 members met to eat and fellowship before the meeting which followed.

The main topic for the May meeting was to discuss the Annual Regional ride which takes place at the Harrison State Forest on June 10-12. Judy Fortner is in the process of taking reservations for camping. Latest word is that almost all of the spots are full! Day time rides will include a candy ride, slow trail ride and fast trail ride. The members are looking forward to the Cobbler Cook off on Friday and the great entertainment of Dan Jones on Friday and Jim Mclaughlin on Saturday evening. T-shirts are on sale and were sold at the last meeting. The club decided to auction off a saddle at a silent auction at the June ride and members may also provide baskets to be included in the silent auction.

The club discussed the youth scholarship applicants and allowed members to read over the applications. Four young riders/ horse lovers turned an application in for the youth scholarship which is worth up to $500. This will go toward horse camp or lessons with Penn-Walt Stables.

The group also discussed other local horse events in the area. Some of the events included a schooling dressage show that will be held by OVDA and a trail horse challenge clinic at Blue Magnum Stables. Our photos reflect the true dedication of our members and their love for their horses and riding. Along with trail riding, many of our members work to expand their experiences with their equine partner, whether it be at a jumping show, dressage show, lessons, obstacle clinics or mountain trail challenges. Saddle time is saddle time and every different discipline helps to enrich the knowledge of the rider and horse. Another event that HCOHC hopes to hold is a fun show at the Harrison County Fairgrounds in September. Because we all know, fun is above all the biggest goal!

The group discussed the Memorial Day parade in Hopedale, Ohio. Thanks to Carl and Cheryl Francis for doing such a great job representing the Harrison Chapter. We all would like to thank those who gave to give us our freedom. Thank you to those who served, including Carl Francis who not only rides in the parades but served our country in the Navy. And many thanks to our equine friends who also served and contributed to the establishment of this great country, the land of the free.

Lastly, the clearing of trails and the purchasing of equipment are always topics on the monthly agenda, especially at this time of year. The trails have been

Mikayla Westlake practicing jumping on her boy.

Haley Kelly taking a lesson on Wonder.

Cheryl and Carl Francis at the Memorial Day parade in Hopedale, Ohio.

reported as mostly clear at Harrison State Forest. However, the maintenance is an ongoing thing. President Mark Westlake mentioned that anytime anyone wants to do a workday, just give him a ring.

Everyone is overwhelmed with outside work, I’m sure. It is always hard at this time of year and it seems like we never get caught up. I once heard someone say, “Horse work before housework.” Let’s make sure that the horse work stays up there as a priority. They need us and we need them. Sometimes just a short trail ride around the property is enough to clear our minds and our souls. Hope everyone has a great riding season. Happy trails and God Bless!

~Lori Mayher

HOCKING

Our club’s first meeting at the new location went smoothly. I didn’t count, but I believe that we had more people attend then at our prior location. This indicated to me, that the club made a good choice in changing to a larger meeting location. We had our third guest speaker for the year. Larry Teichman from Valor Retreat spoke about his need for volunteers to help get Valor up and running. Stable manager Anya Ramsey also spoke about the equine division of Valor and the availability to rent both indoor and outdoor arenas. The link to this new organization located in Hocking County, www. facebook.com/VALORRetreat.

With the weather getting nicer, weekend equine activities are taking everyone in different directions. One member, Kathy Newman recently purchased a yearling colt named Asher. She admits that this might seem silly to others, but he was out of a beloved mare that she used to Gunner Rau

Isee Beiter

own. So yeah, I get it. I would have done the same thing.

Our youth are letting no grass grow under their feet! Congratulations to Gunner Rau! Gunner and his horse Chumley are the 2021 OPWBRA (Ohio PeeWee Barrel Racing Association) 5D Champions! Isee Beiter recently competed at the All American Youth Horse Show She placed 8th in the Registered Quarter Horse Pleasure and 5th in the Ladies Pleasure. Both were in the 17 year old categories. And she’s graduated high school! And if that wasn’t enough, she’s also received her Ohio Agribusiness Industry credential!

With the rising price of gas recently, many of us are rethinking our summer horse travel plans. Some of the rides planned earlier this spring, now have question marks beside them. I’m sure our members are not the only ones feeling the pinch. I know of one club that has moved their meetings to coincide with rides, in order to help members save on gas. We’ve not done that, but there may be some changes in the upcoming schedule. Rides might be held closer to home and meeting dates or locations could move. Stay tuned for updates as I know them. You can also ask on our Facebook page. Raven Rau does a great job keeping the page up to date.

Our club is very family friendly and meet at the Olde Dutch Restaurant and Banquet Haus (Oak Room), in Logan, the third Sunday of every month at 7 p.m. Come in earlier for dinner and relaxed conversation prior to the meeting.

Watch our Facebook page for more information about our club and upcoming events! ~Donna Shade

HOLMES

As I write the July article, we’re making our first cutting hay. It is hot enough here at the end of May to feel like July. It is a good feeling to have that done; one because it is the right time of year and without rain, and two, because we can ride without worrying about getting hay in for a little while.

While our Holmes County Chapter had some rides canceled due to weather, there has been a good amount of riding getting done. Spring riding at Mohican has been beautiful. We had a very well attended work day on May 21. Three large trees were removed from the trails. Two UTVs and several chainsaws were there. The far outhouse was painted. The fence and alcove areas were weedeated and cleared. Several groups trimmed branches and multiflora rose from parts of the trails. We enjoyed seeing Pete and Cheryl Jacobsen who helped so much; as did all those who attended. Our potluck dinner time was moved up because of an approaching storm. The dinner was just as good that way as it would have been later. Unfortunately, the storm also required rescheduling our meeting to the first week of June. Overall, we worked hard and ate well. We are looking forward to our June trip to Elkins, which by the time you read this will be in the books.

In club news, donations were made to Hospice in memory of Lenny Gerber and a donation Saturday’s work crew getting organized.

Tree crew at the work day (l-r): Tom Bahl, Heather Kinney, Pete Jacobson, Jack Stetson, Ron Kline, and Bob Picklesimer.

was made to Camp Tuscazoar to help with gravel in their new parking lot. That group has a fundraiser event Aug. 20, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This former Boy Scout camp has some great riding on its trails. Also, we would like to wish hearty congratulations to board member Shar Milner’s granddaughter, Jamie Milner, on her high school graduation. We have enjoyed Jamie’s presence over the years.

They grow up so fast. I ran into secondary members Heather Kinney Tate and son Taran at the Ashland Paint and Plain show. Their good horse, Gus, went from the Mohican trails one weekend, to the ranch and youth classes the next, and to top it off, he and Heather rode in a Memorial Day parade the next day. Now that’s versatility. The Paint and Plain shows are lots of fun, well run, and well attended. Fall pizza sales are being discussed. Plans are being made about our Labor Day weekend at Mohican. We hope to attend the regional ride at Mohican July 4th weekend hosted by Wayne County.

We’ve enjoyed getting back to riding at Mohican. Bruce made a trip to Kentucky and visited a Tennessee Walking Horse farm. I enjoyed getting out to an Ashland Paint and Plain show and watching my son’s two good horses work. We’re planning on riding with Lorain County at Salt Fork this weekend. Looking ahead to hotter weather, we are trying to get the horses used to it with some shorter rides at high temps and some regular work. I usually feed some electrolytes in the heat, but whatever your

veterinarian recommends is the best plan. Be safe and take care. Enjoy the season.

~Bev Hanna

KNOX

As indicated in the past, Knox County OHC is a very active OHC chapter. Early in the year we had a trail ride planning session where it was agreed that instead of ‘sticking’ our very good Trail Rides Chair, Phil Rauch, with all the arranging, we had individuals appointed to contact several parks and arrange for use of group camps such as Hocking, Zaleski, etc. A great time was had this past weekend as our President Misty McDonald took responsibility for arranging a weekend campout at Hocking. There were 12 rigs and 19 riders present, riding the three day weekend for Memorial Day. A bit over 20 miles was logged. Dodging the rain was bothersome Friday but the weather cleared and all had a great time. Camp activities included a sack race and a celebration of a couple of birthdays. Thanks to the park for arranging to have a horse water tank present but they could keep the rather large black snake photographed on the rigging.

July 15-17 is the Central Region Ride at Fallon Park, previously referred to as AEP on State Route 83 just east of Highway 16. This is an old strip mined terrain that provided the coal for the AEP power plant. Camping is primitive, but there is an outhouse, shelter, and horse watering tank that has flowing water when the pump is on. Trails are generally dry, some rock, but very interesting. Reservations to OHC Central Region Representative were requested earlier.

July 1-4 you’ll find us camped at Bark Camp. This does require a state reservation and I suspect it is close to being filled at this late date. This is a four day weekend. It is mostly primitive camping. Trails are generally well taken care of and it is relative easy riding. There is a miniature golf course within walking distance for a fun evening. Not sure what activity is planned, but I am sure it will be fun. And, Saturday night is always a potluck.

KCOHC has the group camp at Zaleski reserved for the weekend of July 22-24. If the weather is dry, the trails will be good. Trails are a bit more of a challenge than Bark Camp. There is a pond for horse water. We might ride to Uncle Buck’s for lunch on Saturday, passing through that haunted tunnel known as Moonville Tunnel.

Anyone is welcome to join Knox County OHC, we’re a group of enthusiastic equestrians that ride, a lot. We meet the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m., now established at 411 Pittsburg Avenue, Mt. Vernon, Ohio.

Come on over to Knox County where the gates are wide open, the grass is greener, the horses leaner, as we do ride them, and everyone is welcome. We meet the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

Misty at Hocking.

Randy at Hocking.

~Terry L. Baker

LAKE

our OHC Bingo cards. Michelle S., Michelle H. and Savannah, Rosemary and Ken M., Linda C. and myself cleaned kennel pens for the Geauga dog warden’s shelter on May 22. We put fresh straw in each kennel doghouse after first raking out old straw and debris. The pens themselves also had to be cleaned and raked. Savannah loved fluffing the straw around in the dog houses. She did not like the three foot brown snake we found in one pen. It didn’t like us either and left rather quickly for the woods far away. Savannah fluffed straw and pushed the wheelbarrow over and over. She even greeted people coming to the kennels to view dogs up for adoption. Our chapter also donated a plastic dog house and a small dog carrier to the kennels.

Some of our members went to HorseFest at Lake Farm Park May 21 and 22. There they saw a variety of displays and exhibitions. I, myself, enjoyed learning about the mini donkeys and mini horses, exhibited with mammoth donkeys and giant mules. Equine massage was demonstrated by Andres Zwegat for wellness, relaxation, and performance. Andrea has given two sessions to my own horse, Hannah. I’m learning a little too. Magna Wave was also shown.

The Draft horses seem so patient. Just looking at those magnificent drafts is awesome. One member particularly enjoyed the bridle-less riding and jumping of a horse named Monty. A birthday party was celebrating in one area with many kids who were excited, but well supervised. There seemed to be something for everyone.

Memorial Day weekend had its parades and services. During the holiday a Civil War reenactment was playing out in Burton. A few members saw the tents used by the infantry, and different men going about doing everyday camp chores. A young man on a white horse moved along through the camp. He looked like he belonged with the 6th Ohio Calvary which we saw at Equine Affaire. It’s all marvelous.

Our Lake chapter turned National Trail Ride Day into two days, both Saturday and Sunday. June 4 we had nine people and horses ride the trails at Girdled Road Park. Saturday was a perfect day and everyone seemed pleased. Sunday was cloudy at Chapin Forest and only three came because it was thought that it might rain. Chapin was chosen for the horse or rider or both, who might need easier terrain than Girdled Road. The trail ride was pleasant.

At the end of the ride, two of our members got off their horses and reminisced about walking their horses during endurance rides when they were younger. Thank you Michelle S. and Rosemary for believing in our third rider.

Keep on riding, friends. ~Rayneen Tisovic

LICKING

Hello from Licking County. I am happy to report that our first chapter ride of the season, which was our pizza ride at Infirmary Mound Park, was a great success! We had 25 riders participate and another few people came out just to hang out after the ride and to have pizza with us. I think that everybody had a great experience at the ride that day! We did have one incident of a horse spooking at a deer on the trail and unfortunately the rider came off and broke two ribs, but I’m happy to report she is on the mend!

An event I want to remind you about is the upcoming history ride at Malabar Farms on July 10. This will be another great opportunity to ride and have fun with us. That will be a pack your own lunch ride and you can always camp the night before if you like! Another ride we have coming up on Aug. 7 is our history ride at Taft. Don’t forget to put it in your calendar. Our fun show is happening this month on July 30 at Infirmary Mound Park, we hope to see many of you there!

At our last meeting we discussed the 50th anniversary celebration of the Ohio Horseman’s Council which will take place at the Newark Elks Lodge on Nov. 5. If you would like to attend, please reserve your spot and dinner soon.

Jan Dean and her son Mark at the pizza ride.

Pizza ride at Infirmary Mound Park.

Deb Sheka and her hubby at pizza ride.

At our chapter meeting in August we will have Mrs. Dee Silliman speak about saddle fit. Hopefully we will see everybody there. In the meantime, I hope everyone has their first cutting hay in the barn and gone on some trail rides! Happy riding! ~Sigrid Batten

LOGAN

We had our Logan County OHC concession stand May 20 at the Marmon Valley Farm Horseshow, and it was a huge success with many members donating either their time, money or both to help the cause! At this meeting the club gave back a large portion of our fundraiser profits to the community. We donated money to the Logan County Fair horse show fund, which will help repair all the barns and the arena. This donation will help competitors for years to come with safe barns and arenas. Then we donated to the Marmon Valley Farm Youth scholarship fund to help give a child an opportunity to go to camp this summer who may not have been able to go without it. Shawndel Wilson brought up that at her farm you can check off nine of the bingo boxes and we will be setting up a date so members can work on those 50th anniversary bingo cards. For National Trail Day, we had four Logan County OHC members trail ride at Kiser Lake.

Happy Trails!

~Cynthia Orr

LORAIN

Happy July 4th everyone! We have so much to be thankful for here in our country. Please pause to give thanks for all the freedoms we have. ADT Security LLC is our calendar sponsor this month. They provide security systems for homes and businesses so please consider contacting them if you are looking into a system to protect your home and/or business.

Our Pie Ride was as sweet as always with many of us riding at Carlisle. Afterward we gathered to enjoy each other’s company while eating delicious sweet treats. Unfortunately our campout at Carlisle was cancelled due to the weather. It will hopefully be rescheduled for a later date. Thanks to Karen Norton who was the coordinator for the Grafton Memorial Day parade and all who took the time to ride in the parade as this is a beautiful way to honor our armed forces, especially to those who sacrificed their life while serving in the military. There were a total of 21 riders who attended the Salt Fork campout from LCOHC June 3-5. The weather was picture perfect for this ride. Thanks Jim Wallace who was the contact for this ride.

This month we are heading to Malabar for a day ride on Saturday, July 16. We will ride out at 11 a.m. Please contact Jim and Laura Wallace who graciously volunteered to be the

Trail Maintenance at Kipton Reservation. Grafton Memorial Day parade.

Twenty-one LCOHC campers at Salt Fork.

contacts for details. On Monday, July 18 we will hold our membership meeting at Carlisle Equestrian Center at the open pavilion beginning at 7 p.m.

July 22-24 we will camp at West Branch in Portage County, Ohio. The camping is primitive and the trails vary from moderate to challenging depending on the weather. There are 20 miles of bridle trails. There are 10 nonelectric campsites, pit toilets and tie lines. Bring your own water and food. The camp is located off of Rocksprings Road. Rocksprings Road runs north and south between SR 5 and SR 18, east of Ravenna. You will need to go online at reserveohio.com to check for reservations. Holly Thompson kindly offered to be the contact for this weekend trip.

Saturday, July 30 we will be at Wetmore for a day ride. We will ride at 10 a.m.

Looking ahead to August, we will be at Hinckley Reservation for a day ride, heading out at 10 a.m. We will meet at the Route 606 Trailhead.

Happy trails to you. Enjoy the wonderful summer riding and all the freedom we have in our country.

~Kathy Duncan

MADISON

We are finally on our horses, and only partially slogging through mud. You will read this in July, so now we are probably all complaining about the heat and bugs of summer. But, remember all of the times of excavating the mud off of our beloved horses and swearing at the weather that made life a soggy mess and toppled trees Madison County Deer Creek work crew.

that had to be hacked and moved from the trails. Nature makes us humble, for sure.

The Madison County Gymkhana series started off in May with a great turnout of 63 entrants. There are classes for all, from lead line through senior (people, not horses). Some contestants simply walk the pattern to get their horse familiar with the surroundings, while others run the course to try to beat their times and win ribbons.

We did see some great horsemanship by several riders whose horses spooked and refused a pattern, and they were cheered by all when they dismounted and led their horse through the pattern so they could learn and not be fearful the next time. This is a fun event for all, and a great way to desensitize your horse to crowds and unfamiliar surroundings. We appreciate all of our hard-working members who plan and execute these events. The world would not run well without volunteers!

Two of our members made a trip to attend a three-day boot camp at Helge’s Rockin’ HB Ranch in Waynesville, Ohio. This was a ‘shapeup for successful summer riding’ that involved many interesting obstacles (a teetertotter bridge, opening a gate, navigating narrow passages, and going up steps) as well as ground work sessions and trail riding. They said they had a ball and can’t wait to go back for more. This should check off some of the Bingo squares for them, as there was much new to be learned.

The never-ending trail clearing at Deer Creek has been completed, so all trails are open! That is not to say that some unruly tree has not decided to topple onto the trail right after I wrote this, though. For any trails that you ride on, please be thoughtful and carry pruners or clippers with you to cut anything that is hanging in the way. The only way that trails stay

Young contestants at Gymkhana.

clear and open is with everyone pitching in. I think that there are many who use the Ohio trails who do not realize that it is volunteers like you and me who keep the trails maintained, and not the state. If we all do our parts, the trails and world is a better place.

At our May meeting, member Lorna Kenyon presented a showand-tell on what she keeps on her saddle for trail riding. It was amazing to see what all is packed into a fairly small space to allow for medical treatment for human and equine, safety for trails, and emergency preparedness. It was a bit of a magic show to see more and more keep coming out of that pack! Key take-aways are to make sure to keep your paper map, phone, truck keys, and a whistle on your person and not your horse, should you become separated, make sure you have ID on yourself and your horse, and to always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. A complete list is posted on the OHC website, under the Madison County section in our blog. It is a great reminder for us all!

Our June presenter, Madison County OHC president John Pierce, showed us different ways to tie a rope to secure our horses. We have all had knottying failures, so it is great to have a refresher and new skills to keep ourselves and our horses safe. Practice time was provided, and each member brought a rope. Knowledge is power, and helping each other is what our OHC is all about.

We always welcome new members to our chapter as well as those who wish to join us as secondary members. The more the merrier! Our July meeting will include a potluck under the trees (weather permitting) at the West Jefferson Community Center, our regular meeting location.

Stay safe on the trails and in all of the riding that you do! ~Lisa Reynolds

MEDINA

You can tell the weather is getting better by the number of events happening. Big news on the trail front: A reception was held at the Conservancy for CVNP at Hines Hill for Conservancy’s Trails Now Kick-Off event on May 25. This event showcased the plans for a new parking area and trailhead at Stanford House that will include room for horse trailers, amongst other things. Donations for the trail fund are again being matched by the Dalton Family Foundation. Generous donations have already been made by Medina as well as Summit, Lorain, Cuyahoga, Erie, and Trumbull Counties. (If I left out any chapter, I apologize!). Your generosity and meeting with likeminded park enthusiasts reminded us of how well-supported the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is and how average citizens can make a difference. Continue reading to see how Medina Chapter is doing their part. To donate see the mailers sent out to OHC membership or go online at conservancyforcvnp.org/ trailsnow and choose ‘Stanford Trailhead Project’.

Our June meeting and ice cream social was a sweet success. Weather kept us indoors instead of at Robinson Field, but we had a great presentation from Erica Pacholewski on equine nutrition. Erica is the manager of Nutritional Services at the Farmers Exchange in Medina and holds a Master’s Degree as nutritionist for equines. She answered questions on specific needs of our horses and we found out that the soil in Ohio is pretty good after all!

Keep on ridin’! July 23 (revised from July 9) come to Robinson Field for a day ride of the Wetmore trails. Come at 9 a.m. for coffee and pastry and enjoy a BBQ chicken dinner created by our illustrious Chef Louise at 3 p.m. There will be a small fee for the lunch. See the flyer in our newsletter or online at ohconline. com/chapter/Medina or contact Kathy Schmidt 216/288-5406 or km5707@aol.com for more information. July 15-17 join us for a weekend at Pleasant Hill, contact Louise Harting 440/2387277 for information on that ride. August 6 we are back at Wetmore trail in the CVNP, Barb Vega is leading that one. Contact her at 216/702-1224.

We are 36 years strongCelebrate! Ride! Eat! Prizes! Repeat! Come join the fun on Aug. 20 for our first big ride in three years. We meet at Robinson Field at 9:30 a.m. for pastry and coffee. Then it’s off to a day of riding the wonderful trails that we have cared for these 36 years. You will find some great improvements in the trails thanks to the continued efforts of the trail fund. A percent of the profits from the ride, raffle and auction will be donated to the Dalton Trail Fund, so we want as much participation as possible. In the evening enjoy a full dinner and a sweet dessert! We are looking for volunteers and auction items, contact Rosemary Young, 440/3827980 or rosemary4medinaohc@ gmail.com, for information and reservations. The flyer is in our newsletter and the OHC website at ohconline.com/chapter/Medina.

Our next membership meeting is July 6 at 6:30 p.m. (meeting starts at 7 p.m.) at Robinson Field in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Bring a chair and a snack to share. Bring your horse and take a ride before the meeting. Field opens at 5:30 p.m.

Our next work parties (‘cause they’re so much fun!) are July 9 and Aug. 13. We’re looking for a few good trail workers! Contact Raydeen Ryden, reysden@att. net or 334/663-7361, or Greg Monsanty, 330/352-5737 or blackhorsebridge@aol.com for dates and details.

Get on down to the valley! ~Rosemary

MORROW

Greetings from Morrow County OHC chapter where green is now the dominate color as the official first day of summer soon arrives with hopefully many months of great riding weather before 2022 cold weather returns. This early June composition date has seen more than adequate rain that has restricted the completion of crop planting although hay growth is robust. A limited amount of hay has been harvested locally but mine is waiting for a ‘four days forecast of good weather’ before cutting. Some chapter members have done some local riding while the Memorial Day period had Drew Ann and Frank enjoying some southern Ohio National Forest trails. President Floyd who has been an exclusively mule person for many years recently purchased a horse which he soon plans to expose to Mohican State Forest trails. Maybe his riding my bombproof Wild Wind in the 2021 Delaware All Horse Parade contributed to his decision!

Health issues continue to keep some members grounded due to developments from advancing age and not because of accidents. Concerning accidents, I did just read a report today of a rider being trampled after being thrown off by her horse when a loose dog charged riders on the trail. The incident was not in Ohio, but I recall at Mohican State Forest when a chapter member, Byron, suffered serious injury several years ago when a deer spooked the horses which resulted in some difficult EMS work to transport to Mansfield Hospital. Another incident at Mount Gilead State Park several years ago had a solo riding chapter member injured when two large loose dogs attacked his horse. Mutual equine/canine activity is enjoyable for many horse owners where sufficient training and control exists for appropriate environments. Another recent riding accident/injury may have contributed to the stroke suffered by a Knox County OHC member which has her now using a motorized wheelchair for an unknown future time period. May all readers experience an accident free 2022 riding season with their favorite steed and other riding friends.

Our small chapter does not conduct many organized rides but joins other OHC events and shares lots of equine fellowship during our monthly chapter meetings which are at 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month in the Mount Gilead Library Annex.

This report will end with the usual sign-off until next month, I trust the 2022 season will allow many OHC members to get ‘Back in the Saddle Again’, which was a phrase from Gene’s theme song. Until next month, keep your chin up and strive to provide the best care possible for your horses who will provide you the opportunity to enjoy some great riding. Also stay safe in the saddle/on your horse if you do have an opportunity to ride before the next report and I hope to see some readers on the trail later this year. ~DOC

PERRY Let’s get moving—we’re burning daylight! This time of year all

Rusty and Charm at Burr Oak.

Teresa and company at Perry Woods.

horsemen feel this way with the additional mowing duties, hay making, and of course, riding and camping! Perry members have been all over the place, literally, enjoying the trails we work so hard to maintain.

Over Memorial Day several enjoyed the fruits of our labor and camped at Burr Oak which we cleaned a week prior. There was still a section of trail we were not able to clean that day but talk about a lot of hard work. Huge trees down, all over the trails. It was all we could do to accomplish as much as we did and kudos to everyone who helped. With all the rain Burr Oak was no exception as to mud but it did dry rather quickly. Only one tent camper was in the equestrian camp with us lucky seven. It may be an unpopular opinion, but I hate mixing nonhorse campers. I think it’s dangerous. Case and point, we were saddling when here comes kids on scooters and several horses jumped. That could have caused an injury very easily. But I guess we have to live with it.

Teresa Spring was able to join us at camp and brought her six month old Irish Setter, Rusty. What a lively little critter he is! We all had fun playing with him over the weekend.

As to Burr Oak trails and facilities, allegedly a new trail is being mapped that will take us to the lodge. And the state is promising a real latrine. Right now not only are the trails limited but they have some spots that are butt puckers. Honestly, if we Trail work at Burr Oak.

can’t get these improvements this year after many years of trying and after our club built the nice shelter house, I for one won’t be returning. Personal preference I guess.

I’ve heard Strouds Run trails in Athens have been improved and I think I’ll see if the club would like to add a ride there. Right now we have Salt Fork coming up in July. We are going to try to put together a little tack swap in conjunction with the ride which will be open to all campers. Also coming up is the campout with Hocking OHC at Cowboy Larry’s and of course the annual Gibby Ride at Barkcamp the first weekend of August. That ride is always a good time.

Picket lines have been the bane of camping in places that don’t offer tie lines, at least that’s the case for many of us women who struggle with the ratchet ties. I have to say I did manage to put up a few good ones last year to my own surprise, but I always worry about it. This year, however, problem solved. I ordered the new Quick Draw Tie Line from a wonderful guy down in Tennessee to whom I spoke with for over half an hour. He will be providing our club a complimentary package that includes a 50 foot line that you can literally put up in five minutes. And it’s nice! I can’t wait to try it now. Be on the lookout for a club raffle for this valuable item. I will report back on my success after I use it but I can tell it’s going to be awesome!

In member news, Susie and Audra Reid have a darling new colt that they welcomed in May. Kathy and Terry Newman purchased the colt that belonged to their former mare, Rain. The yearling is a firecracker from what I’m told. Dianna Lowe purchased a thoroughbred mare and Roxanne Drake added a little rocky mountain mare. I finally bought a new trailer, this one with full living quarters. I can’t wait ’til my first solo campout with it.

We voted to forego a meeting in June since everyone is so busy with hay and other summer activities. The July meeting will be held at the Salt Fork ride. August will find us returning to the Top Hat on the second Tuesday. It’s been impossible to schedule any speakers at our meetings since Top Hat closes at 8 p.m. I’m going to ask members to assist in forming an events committee to brainstorm on other locations where we can have a special activity or two as part of the regular meeting. Hopefully we can put something together for September.

Be safe and happy trails! ~Marianne

PIKE

Pike County trails are slowly returning to a somewhat normal state. I have ridden nearly half of them and all are passable. The state forest workers did a fantastic job of moving the large trees and of smoothing up some of the wet spots. There have been large areas of logging near posts 27, 24, 2, as well as the Tobacco Barn area and Mitchell Ridge. Areas that are complete have been mostly returned to their original condition with leveling and seeding.

Ten members now have the first road trip trail ride of the summer under their belts. We headed out for three days at Mohican State Forest, riding approximately 25 miles. This is a great campground with well managed trails. It is a shame camping is only allowed once a season for each group. We highly recommend it. Our July meeting will be loads of fun. Camping, riding, eating, and it is ‘Christmas in July’. Bring a covered dish and a pass around gift, followed by a large campfire. You are welcome to join us on July 2, for the social event of the season at 5 p.m. ~Debby Sears

Mohican lunch break.

ROSS

Hello everyone, I hope all is well and riding as much as you can. The weather has been great and the trails are starting to finally dry out around the Ohio area. As we ride into July and the weather turns hotter than a fire cracker, remember to hydrate not only your horse but yourself. Horses will sweat up with work, make sure they have a chance to rest and cool off over the course of a long ride. A horse’s ability to regulate its temperature is greatly reduced and heat stress is more likely, so be careful. As you can see in one of my attached pictures, my clan knows how to cool themselves and their horses, we find places with as much water for not only ourselves to cool off, but the horses too.

Ross only has one scheduled club ride this month on July 16 and we have tentatively scheduled this ride at Twin Creek where there is plenty of water to swim your horse and yourself. Twin Creek may not be a long, strenuous or an advanced rider location with hills and views, but I have ridden there when the weather is really hot and it is a fun place to go where you can take it easy on your horse and have some fun while doing so. Check the Ross County OHC Facebook page for more information on the July club ride.

I would like to take this time to congratulate the winners of the Memorial Day weekend poker ride. The winner of the best poker hand was Shay Adams with three aces, the high spade winner went to Jessica Maxwell with the ace of spades, the 50/50 winner was Steven Maxwell and the winner of the fish races was Jessica Maxwell. Those Maxwell’s sure know how to play the games. Thanks to all who donated their winnings back to the Ross County OHC. I would like to thank the band Liberty Uprising

Ross County OHC

for coming out to our primitive campground at Tar Hollow and putting on a great show, the music was awesome and we all appreciate it.

Last but not least, I would like to thank all of our members and volunteers who showed up to do trail maintenance and camp cleanup the week before to make sure we had safe trails and a place to tie up the horses. Everything looked great and the trails were clear.

Ross County has no August club ride scheduled, but I am sure that some will be riding somewhere, get in touch with us and we will get together for a ride.

~Angie

STARK

How are you doing with your Bingo card? Have you tried something new in 2022? Many have as I look at the OHC Facebook page and see some of the interesting photos that are posted. It is so exciting to see what members are doing for our 50th anniversary year. I am just getting started as I have had a very busy year so far but as I look at the tasks listed, I am surprised to see the ones I have completed. I have attended a chapter meeting (#18), submitted my 2021 trail maintenance hours by Jan. 31, 2022 (#29), worked at the Equine Affaire Booth (#38), renewed my 2022 membership by Jan. 31, 2022 (#39), read a book about horses (#50). I had purchased this book when I was at Equine Affaire and it was written and signed by Jan Sharp from Ashtabula County. I have already completed five tasks without even trying. Now I need to get out, get on my horse to complete some more! How easy can this be and able to win some wonderful prizes to boot plus a chance to win the beautiful quilt!

Recently I went to my hair salon for a much needed permanent and a tick was found on my head. I believe it was dead from the solution used. That is the third one I have had this year already. I haven’t seen any on my cats, dogs or horses. We have been told to expect more ticks this season and beyond. There are now five ticks in Ohio that are concerns: the American dog tick, the blacklegged tick (deer tick), the Lone Star tick and recently both the Asian long horned tick and the Gulf Coast Tick. What can you do? Keep your yard mowed, do not allow brush or leaf litter to accumulate, remove brush, tall weeds and grass to eliminate the habitat of rodents and other small animals which serve as hosts for ticks as well as serve as prime tick habitat. Stay safe!

Until next time, happy trails to you! ~Jo Ellen

SUMMIT

Well it was yet another weather test to see how many members would attend the May meeting at RHP Summer Barn. Thanks to Molly for setting up a heater and making ready as everyone trickled in from the rain and wind outside. We had a few new faces, Francis and a new recruit. There was a lot of lively discussion and mysterious bird diving bombing the grounds outside our windows. Plans for the upcoming Poker Run fundraiser which happened in late June and various rides/ activities were highlighted.

Stewardship is something OHC members understand, i.e. taking care of our trails now and for the next generation of riders. With our 50th anniversary, I ask that each of you consider doing at least one thing to help our planet. Drive the speed limit, it saves gas and improves mileage; folks gas is $5 a gallon! Lowering overall speed reduces accidents which also cause all our insurance rates to rise. Pull some weeds instead of spraying cancer causing chemicals in your yards. Native Americans believe in mindful use of resources not just for today but for seven future generations. Let’s start with our kids and grandkids. They deserve it; each of us can make a difference.

Was royalty hiding in plain sight? IMWTK (inquiring minds want to know). A sumptuous LQ rig discretely pulled into an undisclosed location in the Tennessee hills. The occupants, a fine lady, her dog and horse, were prepared to settle in quietly for a week’s stay. Parking was at a premium and required assistance to wiggle in and level the LQ on a muddy incline. A kindly gentleman then asked for two chocks to finish the job. Grateful but perplexed she happily returned and handed him two bars of Godiva’s finest. Sensing the communications barrier of a common language, he left and returned with his extra pair. However, it was another pesky device which would prove her undoing. The pedal on the loo malfunctioned. Seemingly an easy fix, the owner jiggled and fiddled until it finally just snapped off (so much for modern plumbing). It was an uphill hike to use the local’s facilities but she bore it with a stiff upper lip for the duration. The stay and rides proved pleasant. All too soon, it was time to leave. Getting an early start she motored along to about mile 50 when she remembered ‘the chocks’.

Seeking a place to pull over, the next truck stop resembled a bee hive of semis as she hovered for a place to lite. A frantic call was made back to the facility to reach the Good Samaritan to tell him she would send him a replacement pair but not revealing one had mysteriously flown out of the truck bed somewhere along her route. The service department in ‘Wellington’ had been alerted and was waiting for her return. As it turned out, the pedal could not be repaired and required a total unit replacement. And that is the story of how Lady Carolyn acquired her new throne.

Keep smiling and here’s hoping to see you out on the trails. ~Joann Ulichney

TUSCARAWAS

Several Tuscarawas County OHC members were provided the rare opportunity to witness an incredibly romantic wedding ceremony, bride and groom adorned in western apparel, outdoors, adjacent to a magical bank barn, surrounded by lush green pastures, in Magnolia.

Alexis and Colton exchanged their own rendition of personally prepared vows beneath the shade of a magnificent stone fireplace. Tears of joy flowed freely, as those in attendance shared the magnitude of this amazing love story and intertwining of families. Their three children stood glowing by their side. As we retreated to the shelter of the barn strewn with glimmering strands of festive lights and a scrumptious wedding feast, the sky began to darken.

The tranquility of the evening was invariably interrupted by fierce storm clouds and a spring shower. The crowd drew to the interior of the venue. The sudden torrential pour did not dampen the tempo within. A diverse range of music welcomed dancers. The dancers whirled, twirled, stomped and frolicked rhythmically about, rocked by the sheer joy of the celebration.

The following weekend, after a short honeymoon respite, the Garrett family joined the horsey set at Beaver Creek State Park’s Horse Camp. Their intention was to master corn hole and badminton, hike, play card and board games, and feast on campfire specialties…. and relax. I am certain at one Memorial Day parade.

Lady C in fine form.

Do it for the new recruits.

Tuscarawas County OHC

time or another, we have found yourselves amid consistent horse traffic, without our favorite mount. Perhaps, you recognize the common yearning to participate, that cannot be sated from the spectator’s seat. As much as it was truly an amazing weekend, I believe that next time, Alexis and Colten will be determined to include their horses in future camping escapades, where horses are abundant.

The Tuscarawas County OHC welcomes new members. Our monthly dinner meeting falls on the second Monday of each month, at 7 p.m. Please contact a member, or the undersigned to determine the location.

Happy Trails, ~Holly Waldenmyer

UNION

Happy summer everyone! Union County is having a slow year. Jim and Debbie Strayton are working on their Bingo cards. They rode on National Trail Day at Glacier Ridge and Debbie rode bareback on her birthday. Susan Kiser has been showing Cowboy Dressage with her horse, Lakota, picking up a first and a second at their most recent show. Karen is anxious to hit the trails but is contenting herself with brushing her horse, Blue while she undergoes medical treatment. She is looking forward to a model horseshow within the next couple week. Patience is a virtue.

Hopefully, I’ll have more to Susan and cowboy dressage wins.

Birthday ride.

write about next month. Until then, Happy Trails. ~Karen Holland

WARREN

A word of caution: safety glasses are a good thing! I found this out first hand at our last work day in May. I usually have my sunglasses on so haven’t worried about it. But that day was cloudy and we were knocking a fair amount of rain off of the brush, so I didn’t have mine on. We were doing great until I hit a mud hole. Actually, the mud hole would probably have been OK; my ATV is pretty powerful and might have made it through if it wasn’t for a tree branch that was sticking out and refused to break when rammed with the ATV. So I got stuck in the mud. And in the process of trying to push a part of that branch out of my way, I got slapped with it as it snapped back, and slapped hard! The good news about being stuck is this time it happened right where Rick Wehlrey was working with Roger’s tractor, so thanks to that and Tom Prudhoe dragging my winch all the way out for me, I was towed free fairly quickly. (See photo I took while I was waiting for Rick to scoop out enough mud to get to me.) However, by the time I got back, went to lunch, dropped off ATV and cleaned my horse’s stall, I was not having fun. Do you know it’s possible for the muscles that move your eye to spasm? Anyway, a trip to Urgent Care on the way home was definitely a good idea, and fortunately I only scratched my conjunctiva, not my cornea. It healed quickly. The funny part of it was that the next day I had to take my Aussie down to Cincy for eye surgery, so we were both buggered up. He was on eye drops, I was on eye drops. I had two washcloths laying on the sink so I could wash our eyes out each time I went into the bathroom. We were quite a pair! His eye healed even faster than mine, at least. Anyway, a few days later I stopped at Harbor Freight to buy safety glasses. I have yellow ones and clear ones now so I should be set.

At least on that work day we got a lot done. Everything from the boat ramp to the north end, with the exception of from mile six to seven as that crew took a shortcut back; it was getting pretty late). There were quite a few trees down, as I’m sure no one would be surprised to hear. Especially ash trees, logically.

For anyone coming to the Warren County State Ride this fall, please note that you must make reservations. There is a form to fill out on the main OHC website. Reservations are being handled through the club; we reserved the whole thing and then will assigns spots based on availability and length of rig. Warren County members may opt to camp in the group camp, as it is reserved for us as well (price is the same). The price is $46 for camping for the weekend; this is for both nights. Meals are catered and are $20 (under 6 free). If you plan to come to the dinner but not camp, please use the same form but just put a 0 or N/A under the camping part and fill out the meal part. If several people are wanting to camp together, please include that information also. We should have a great time!

Thanks to Barb Pfantz for the before and after photos, taken on Green Up Day. Remember I’m always glad to get more photos.

Happy riding!

Before (top) and after (bottom). Rick and Tom getting ready to pull me out of the mud.

~Mickie

WAYNE

This last month had beautiful weather for trail riding and our members made the most of it, riding many different trails and getting our horses in great shape for the longer rides and camp outs to come later this summer. The Tuesday rides at Mohican have been well attended with between nine and 12 riders in attendance at both the noon and evening rides. Remember, just because you can’t make it at noon, check our Facebook page even if you are a secondary member as you may find someone looking for a riding buddy in the evening. We had a new member join us with her beautiful little donkey. Welcome Luz Reiman.

There was a lot of trail work done in May, not just by our members, but also the Forest Service. It was quite exciting! They were trimming trees with a helicopter and using the day riding parking area for staging. The horses were not impressed! Wayne County members Dave Smalley and Tom Bahl cleared trees with help from many other members. Holmes County had a work weekend at the end of the month which many of our members attended as secondary members. Thank you to everyone for all their hard work. If you haven’t had a chance to ride the entire Blue Trail yet, you will be pleasantly surprised at the reroutes. The Green and Orange trails received significant attention and work by Dave and Marline Smalley and Tom and Sharon Bahl. In all they took

Ernie Kaufman on Little Joe, Tuesday night ride.

down 12 trees and cleaned up all the tree limbs across Lyons Falls and on past the platform. They also put up new signage that makes it much clearer where the equine trail is located. Just a heads up though, there have been a lot of bike trails built this spring and they cross over the Orange trails several times. Please be alert for mountain bikers and ride defensively. Lots of work was also done at Malabar Farms. Several large trees were taken off the trails by Tom and Bahl Dave Smalley and at last report they were all clear.

The club rode in the Wooster Memorial Day Parade this year. All the horses did well even with a fighter jet fly over. It was the first parade for Jody Jackson’s horse Cortez and Heather Kinney’s horse Gus. They did well and we hope they will ride again next year. It’s just not a parade without horses!

As I write this article on June 4, it is National Trails Day. Results are still coming in but at last count ten riders have reported 53 miles ridden on four different trails today. I am sure more will come in over the next few days. Remember to count and report your miles annually. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources takes those miles seriously when allocating money and deciding who is actually using the trails. As we all know, the trails are getting more use and it isn’t just equine use, so we need to be good stewards of the resources and let our numbers be known.

Happy Trails to You! ~Sue Baker

Our newest addition. Pam Miller on Pete, Wooster Memorial Day Parade.

Wood County OHC

WOOD

In the days before I write this article a dear friend of our horse family lived the last precious moments of his life. Dave Recker will always be remembered in our family, especially around the camp fires he so loved and tended to. His warmth and laughter will live on in our hearts. Barb and Jerry, may you feel the love and hugs coming to you from all of us. ~Barb O.

It is FREE to add your Equine Event to the Corral Calendar.

Events will be added to the calendar in the magazine and added to our website.

Email your event(s) to michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com with the following information:

Name of Equine Event Date/Time of Equine Event Venue Name of where event will be held Address of venue Contact name and phone number

You may include an email and website address also.