September/October 2012 by Midwest Horse Source

VOLUME 1, NUMBER 5

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Midwest

Horse Source

Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry.

Special Trail Issue... • How to build a good trail • Convert your rail horse OR fancy show hunter to a trail horse • 9 tips for tackling water crossings • Trail riding safety tips • 10 skills your horse should know before you go

PLUS... Calendar of Events News Roundup Training Tips Horse Properties Classified Ads & more!

Visit a local movie set -page 20

2 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

NEWS • COVERAGE • COMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP McCrae Farm Celebrates 25th with Performance Photos and text by Janice Fischer

cCrae Farm in Grayslake, IL, celebrated their 25th year anniversary on June 30, with a performance appropriately titled, “Montage.” The evening was an esoteric mixture of horses, dance and music. The students from McCrae Farm delighted the audience with their lovely costumes and well trained horses. Guest performers also appeared to help celebrate this special evening.

Lori Krenzien on Beck, Bethany Jensby on Ilustre, Debra Rubel on Lady and Lauren Schultz on SanSao perform a Maypole routine replete with ribbons and flowers.

Mule Jump reaches new heights at Annual Fest–Kahoka, MO Elese Orrell and Mario Contreras on Papi per- Jill McCrae and Quebec perform a dueling form a pas de deux of aerial dance and horse. Garoccha routine with Mario Contreras & Papi.

EquineHospitality.com Assists Travelers with Horses

quineHospitality.com, an equine travel website assisting travelers who are planning a trip with their horses, announces an important milestone in the growth of their travel directory to over 650 'equine-friendly' facilities across the United States and Canada. “We are adding new listings daily, and are extremely pleased with the enthusiastic response to our equine travel directory,” said Larry Davis, cofounder. The largest, most sophisticated equine travel directory in North America, this directory is free for everyone: equine travelers, equine hospitality facilities, and people who want this high-value directory placed on their own business or club websites. “We want to support and engage the equestrian community,” said Dr. Daniel Levine, CEO, “and every equine related business, facility, magazine, horse club,

organization, and hospitality website can now have this unique directory placed on their website at no cost, and use it to generate additional revenue.” This free directory provides travelers with informative profiles of hundreds of horse-friendly campgrounds, layover stables, guest ranches, and backcountry vacation facilities that provide equine lodging in the U.S.A. and Canada. Each profile has a detailed description of the facility, contact information, images and videos, travel directions, maps, and traveler reviews, assisting horse owners with finding the ideal place to stay when traveling with their horse. Interested parties are welcome to contact Dr. Levine for more information about acquiring this unique equine travel directory. Web: www.equinehospitality.com Twitter: @equihospitality Facebook: equinehospitality

Mike Call and Radar clear 64” in the Mule Jump to leap into first place at the Annual Clark County Mule Festival in Kahoka, MO. Clarkcountymulefestival.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 3

NEWS • COVERAGE • COMING EVENTS

MIDWEST ROUNDUP How’s your hay? Purina offers suggestions for dealing with hay shortages.

re you looking for answers to your current forage supply? Is your pasture looking tough? Are you worried about how much hay you have or the quality of the sources available? What about the cost of hay? Are you worried about what it might cost to feed enough hay to keep your horses’ condition maintained this winter? Purina can help. Look up your Purina Certified Expert Dealer and ask questions about our solutions to help you be better prepared for this winter. Go to the dealer locator at: http://www.purinamills.com/

Help Needed: for Equine Non-Profits in Drought-Stricken Areas

Many horse owners found their way to Most Feeds in Crete, IL, on August 28th for a Purina “Making Hay” meeting. We discussed the current drought conditions in the Upper Midwest along with what Purina complete feed and hay stretching options our dealers have to offer their customers.

quine therapy programs and horse rescue organizations across the country face historic hay shortages this year as a result of the drought, and members of the equestrian community are calling on each other to help not-forprofits survive the coming winter. John Craven, President of the American Equestrian Trade Association (AETA) and Vice President at Intrepid International, points to dismal numbers released recently by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which indicated that 85% of the country's corn and 63% of the country's hay production are in areas experiencing “historic” drought conditions. As a result, Craven says, horse rescue organizations have seen as much as a three-fold increase in the number of animals abandoned by owners who simply can't feed them. In addition, other notfor-profits including therapeutic riding programs wonder how they will feed their horses when hay costs are expected to skyrocket. “It is during times of crisis such as this that the equestrian community really comes together,” Craven says. “I have no doubt that if we put our minds to it, we can help our equine not-for-profits survive the coming winter.” One equestrian retail store, Saddlers Row in Palatine, IL, decided to create a donation program after an emergency Telenet by the University of Illinois warned horse owners last week that hay prices could double or triple in the coming months. As a result, Saddlers Row created “Flake for a Fan,” an initiative that donates $1 towards hay for local therapeutic riding programs for every new Facebook Like Saddlers Row received until the end of the year. Owner Frances Bowers says the unexpected success of the initiative - more than 600 new Likes for Saddlers Row in less than a week means the issue strikes a chord within the equestrian community. “Our therapeutic riding programs and horse rescue organizations are going to need our help,” Bowers says. “With hay as scarce and expensive as it is, our most valuable volunteer groups face a very, very long winter.” Craven adds: “There is no way out of this drought. We've all got to step up to the plate this year.”

For more information on how to best utilize your hay, please call your local Purina Specialist: Paul Homb EPHomb@landolakes.com

Kelly Grosskreutz KLGrosskreutz@landolakes.com

Kindra Callahan KCCallahan@landolakes.com

4 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Lead Lines by Sandy Kucharski, editor/publisher

Soak up some fun on the trail As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been intrigued by narrow pathways that wind into the woods and disappear into the unknown. My adventurous side takes over and I can’t wait to follow the path, drawn further by every blind curve and challenging obstacle. Add a solid horse and some good company to the equation and it’s the perfect outing for me. Although I totally appreciate a positive schooling session with my horse or the rewarding feeling of a good performance in the show ring, it’s hard to top the satisfaction of a arriving back at the trailer after an adventurous ride. Bonus points are added if the ride included a variety obstacles. My favorite trail obstacle is water. When I look at a map of a potential destination and see creek crossings or ponds, that destination moves to the top of my list of places to try out. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that our horses love water too. Max, my 21-year-old quarter horse gelding is an interesting case. Even though he’s been around a lot, there are still many things out on the trail that he finds to bother him. He’s the herd boss at home, but he’s not bold enough to lead on the trail at a walk. If we decide to canter as a group though,he gets very uptight if he’s not in the lead. It’s not hard for him to find something to spook at, and every now and then if he get frustrated (maybe by too many bugs or too much restraint), it’s not unusual for him to throw a buck or two. But all those little annoying vices are negated by his love of water. Once he catches sight of an upcoming crossing or a pond with an access point, he makes a beeline for it without hesitation. No coaxing is necessary...just give him his head and in he goes. He enjoys plunging his nose in and slurping up a drink, pawing (to the dismay of our less confident riding companions), and just standing around and soaking up the experience. I love it! Though I’ve never gone far enough to where he has to swim, I’m pretty sure that he’d take that in stride as well. Lisa’s POA, Rusty, shares Max’s love of water too so we can have a good time when we’re out together. We’re always on the lookout for new destinations, but also enjoy revisiting old favorites. About a year ago we returned to one of our most memorable trail riding destinations, The Natural Gait, near Harper’s Ferry, IA. One of our goals was to return to the center of the Yellow River to take updated pictures of the same crossing we caught on film about 10 years earlier when Lisa was just a determined little Above: Lisa (age 8) & Rusty (age 6). Below: Lisa (age 20) beginner rider, clinging to her very green pony.

Gaited Horse Trainer • Clinics • Private Lessons Tennessee Walking Horses for Sale Jim Walker 847/287-5280 jim@jimwalkertraining.com 301 Clyde Gleaves Rd., Wartrace, TN 37183

Get in the Spirit! Enter our 1st Annual

Christmas Contest! Deadline: NOV. 1 Great Prizes! See page 9 for details.

You can see the results of our photo shoot here. The girl is a little bigger and the pony is a lot more experienced, but that same joy of splashing through the river is evident. We also helped another friend get her feet wet for the first time so she could feel the dizzy thrill of looking down at the current as you walk against it. (Plus, getting Emily and Cody in the river allowed us to continue to follow the trail on the other side!) The cover photo of this issue was taken just a few weeks ago on another water outing–our last before Lisa headed back to college. I think Max would have gone on to swim in this pond, but it wasn’t the warmest day and the thought of enduring the next five miles back to the trailer soaking wet wasn’t especially appealing to me. This was enough to satisfy my need for adventure though. This issue focuses on the benefits Emily Northup and Cody taking the plunge,with a little help of trail riding, both for the horse and from Max and Sandy. the rider and some how-to advice for getting started. Whether it’s what you do all the time, or it’s a departure from a disciplined training regime, a day on the trail can be a great day of bonding with your equine companion, building trust, perfecting teamwork, and just plain enjoying each other’s company. Soak in the last warm rays of sun for the season and enjoy mother nature’s color show from the best seat in the house–-the back of your horse.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 5

Features Sustainable Trails for Equestrian Use

Proper design , construction, maintenance and use is imperative for horse trails. by Susan Stormer of S&S Trail Services, LLC and Deb Balliet, ELCR

Rail Horse to Trail Horse Don’t let cabin fever ruin your rail horse...hit the trail! featuring Dan Grunewald, by Lisa Kucharski

Se Habla Caballo? An American student practices the universal language of the horse in Peru. by Lisa Kucharski

Water Worriers to Water Warriors

Associate Editor/Web Manager Lisa Kucharski Allied partner - Land o’ Lakes Purina Feed Paul Homb, Account Manager

Nine tips for stepping into water crossings. advice from Tracy Porter, by Lisa Kucharski

Published six times per year: January/February March/April May/June July/August September/October November/December

‘True Love’ can turn you around. An eye-opening natural horsemanship lesson. by Kindra Callahan

NEXT DEADLINE: Week of Oct. 29

Class Act Local horsemen and a college student pair up to film a movie in Woodstock, IL. photo and text by Janice Fischer

Columns 4-Lead Lines

11-Better Safe Than Sorry...

12-The Winning Edge 13-Checkerboard Chatter 15-The Perfect Round 17-From The Side of the Trail

Advertising and Editorial Office Kucharski Publishing 18209 Collins Rd. Woodstock, IL 60098 815/568-6772 mwhorsesource@gmail.com

Departments

Website: www.midwesthorsesource.com

2-Midwest Round-Up 15-Calendar 16-Corral Business Listings 16-Classified 18-Greener Pastures, Real Estate Listings

Cover photo by Lisa Kucharski: “Mom & Max take the plunge.”

Midwest

Horse Source

an allied partner with Pick up your FREE

COPY at area Feed Stores, Tack Shops, Trailer Dealers, Horse Facilities

Or get each issue (6 per year) mailed to you: SUBSCRIBE: $15.00 per year NAME:____________________________________________ PHONE:_____________________ ADDRESS:_____________________________________________________________________ CITY, STATE, ZIP:_________________________________________________________________ EMAIL:_______________________________________________________________________ Checks payable to: Midwest Horse Source

Mail to: Midwest Horse Source, 18209 Collins Rd., Woodstock, IL 60098

TO ADVERTISE: Call Sandy at 815/568-6772 or email: mwhorsesource@gmail.com

6 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Sustainable Trails for Equestrian Use Design, Construction, Maintenance and Proper Use make a difference by Susan Stormer of S&S Trail Services, LLC and Deb Balliet, CEO of the Equine Land Conservation Resource

eople have been riding horses on trails for millennia, and this activity can bring great joy to the lives of people and the horses they care for. A trail that was designed and built with an eye towards environmental and social sustainability can allow riders to explore beautiful landscapes with minimal impact and without evidence of their passing.

rather goes with the contour of the land. This keeps water off the trail and minimizes erosion.

al use. Usually game trails run too steeply down the fall line, so a more sustainable route should be chosen.

It is relatively easy to route a trail in the lowest elevation area of a particular landform. However, this is where water will naturally pool and the trail will remain wet and unusable for long periods after a rain event. Whenever possible, build trail on a side slope.

Conversely, a poorly built trail or one that was not designed but simply created through unplanned user activity may simply be unpleasant due to bad choice of path within the landscape, or it can be downright dangerous due to many factors.

If damp ground must be crossed, then hardening the surface or raising the trail tread above the ground will make the trail last longer. Several rock armoring techniques can be found online at www.imba.com/resources. If bridges are necessary, design and construction for horses requires special consideration including load, approach and tread surface. Bridge load limits are a critical factor as the weight and way of travel by horses is far more significant than pedestrian or other trail users. For more information, consult the Equestrian Design Guidebook for Trails, Trailheads and Campgrounds published by the USDA Forest Service in cooperation with the US Department of Transportation.

It can be human nature to want to follow the path of least resistance when building a new trail. Plotting the new trail where the brush and thorns are the thinnest does not constitute good trail building design and planning. It is important to build the trail with the contour of the land and with the use of a clinometer to determine the appropriate location for the trail based on the slope of the land.

Building a Sustainable Trail The purpose of a sustainable trail is to provide users a way to access natural areas on a defined path that is resistant to erosion and causes minimal damage to the environment. Water is the primary cause of erosion on trails. This concept was summarized neatly by trail building professional, Mike Riter, “Water always wins, the trick is in not letting it play the game.” Many trail building techniques have been developed to minimize the impact of H2O on the trail. A sustainable trail does not follow the fall line (the steepest route of descent down a hill), but

Animals will often wear a path by traveling from food to water to shelter, but this should not be considered a “trail” for horse and human recreation-

Doing the hard, time-consuming work right from the beginning of the trail project pays off with less maintenance in the future. Trail Maintenance Even the best built trails need periodic maintenance. Once a season, or as needed, trim back branches and vegetation that encroaches on the travelled space and remove fallen trees to encourage riders to stay on the designated trail. For the health of the trees and shrubs, it is important to trim limbs properly. Tree branches should be cut back to the next main juncture, all the way to the trunk if necessary. The recommended clearance height for horse trails is 10- 12 feet of vertical or overhead clearance.

If puddles form on the trail, corrective action is needed. Cutting a small channel in the dirt is ineffective as doing so will simply fill in the channel with silt and eliminate the intended effect. Instead, install knicks and/or rolling grade dips. Consult the Equestrian Design Guide Book for Trails, Trailheads and Campgrounds. Proper Use for Sustainability To extend the life of a sustainably built trail and to reduce the need for trail maintenance, follow this simple rule--don’t use trails when they are wet and muddy! Riding wet trails causes significant damage because it greatly magnifies the erosion process. Additionally, “post holes” that are left behind by hooves can also harden over time and lead to trip hazards for horses. Failure to follow this rule and lack of funds for maintenance is what often forces public land managers to close trails to equestrian use. Your participation in the sustainable trail activities will help create a win-win situation for all equestrian trail users and the landowners and agencies on whose trails we ride. If you have further questions or comments, please visit www.sstrails.com, www.elcr.org, or email Susan at susan@ sstrails.com.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 7

8 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 9

10 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 11

Better Safe Than Sorry... Safety Tips for your Horse Life Trail Riding Safety: Prevent & Prepare for Accidents on the Trail places, open air, and wilderness tranquility Fresh are waiting. The trails are calling and I must go! With such lavish excitement on the horizon, it's difficult to ignore the urge to simply saddle up and ride when it comes to hitting the trail. It's important to remember you and your horse's safety and health are vulnerable when trail riding. The environment of trail riding adds a multitude of elements that are not routinely seen in the barn, arena, or training ring. By having a little foresight and knowledge of how to avoid accidents as well as being prepared for potential emergency situations, you and your horse will enjoy a long, happy career of trail riding. Preparing for the ride will go a long way to improving your trail riding safety. Here are some tips for starting out on the right foot...er, well, hoof. • Ride a horse that is suitable for your riding skill level. • Clean your horses hooves and check to make sure the shoes are tight. • Groom your horse thoroughly. Especially where tack will be touching. • Be sure all tack is in good condition and fits properly. • Apply fly spray to your horse. • Allow horses to drink clean fresh water before starting on the trail. • Dress in layers and wear a helmet. • Let someone know where you're going and when you will be back. • Bring a first aid kit with supplies for both horse and rider. • Bring an extra halter and lead rope. • Check the weather report before heading out. (CHA, 2012)

The distance of your ride should affect your level of preparedness. Before a ride consider how far you are going to be from help. The farther you are going to be away, the more you are going to want to be able to handle an emergency situation. Back country first aid is vastly different than normal situations, specifically the inability to call 911. If this is the case, never leave the injured party alone while help is retrieved. Keep in mind, the goal of emergency situations on the trail is to stabilize the victims and safely remove all parties from the trail. Once the immediate crisis has been alleviated, seek professional veterinary or medical expertise to ensure the best possible care for you and your horse. No matter if it's a trail ride around the block or around the mountain, it's important to be proactive in your planning. Have a horse specific action plan printed and laminated to take on the trail. Within your plan should be: known allergies, behavioral quirks known to make the horse dangerous to handle, your contact information, insurance contacts, vet contacts, statement for willingness of vet to perform surgery for the horse or euthanasia if that is the only humane option (Loving, 2008). Now that you're ready to go, let's review some health and safety tips while on the trail: • Be aware of your surroundings. Even the most intrepid horses can spook. • A red ribbon should be tied to the tail of a horse that kicks. • Maintain space between you and other riders. Ask to pass other riders on the trail if they are too slow. • Ride with a group or another person. • Stay on designated trails. • Observe fire regulations for the area you are in.

• Do not over work a horse. Plan for rest stops where you can loosen the cinch, lifting up the back of the saddle for cooling air flow. (Squaw, 2012) Remember two things; take only memories leave only your hoof prints. Educate yourself on everything equestrian and you are sure to set yourself up for safety success. Happy trails from Safety Check Inc.

provided by

12 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

The Winning Edge

Ride 400 acres of trails through forest, hay meadows and ravines! Barn lounge, w/kitchen & shower Brand New Stalls • Wash Rack Heated Indoor Arena • Daily turnout Laid back environment • Newark, IL Owner/Manager - Joa Bright Primary: 630/774-0042 Secondary: 815/695-9955 www.brighterdazefarm.com Email: info@brighterdazefarm.com

SPORT TRAIL CHALLENGE 2012 The fastest growing horse sport in the country!

An In-Ring Trail Competition for Your Whole Family! All Breeds - All Ages - All Skill levels Happy Note Tack Shoppe 10623 Cline Ave. Crown Point, IN

Practice/Clinic Day- Oct. 20th Check-In 1:00; Clinic 1:30; Practice Runs 2:30

Competition Day-Oct. 21st 2012

10 am sharp

MULTIPLE RINGS! ADDED MONEY! GREAT PRIZES! If you like 'Craig Cameron's Extreme Trail' or the 'AQHA Trail Challenge,’ you will love the 'Sport Trail Challenge'! Western Equipment Required Must wear western style snap or button long sleeve shirt, a bolo, western neck tie or kerchief, & western hat or helmet

Great Food! Biscuits & Gravy, Grilled Burgers & More IN-HAND, PEE WEE, YOUNG GUNS, BEGINNER, YOUTH, NOVICE, AMATEUR, PRO, GREEN HORSE, JUNIOR HORSE, SENIOR, SILVER, BIG $$$ OPEN Feature Your Business Ring, Class, and Corporate Sponsorships available. Get Great Exposure directly to your target market. A great place to showcase your product or training skills. Banners, flyers, and business cards are welcome! Ample Trailer Parking. Completely Tiled and Drained. Primitive Camping (call ahead). Happy Note Tack Shoppe is located on Cline Ave. Just _ mile North of Rt 231 in Crown Point In. Only 5 min from I-41, 15 min from I-65, 15 min from IL State Line. Call: 219-689-1881, 630-643-0822 for more information. For rules, guidelines, obstacle samples, class descriptions, score sheet info: Please visit EXCA.com. Hosted By: American Sport Trail Horse Association & Happy Note Tack Shoppe. Not responsible for accidents, injuries, damage , loss, or death.

Visit us on Facebook at “Sport Trail Challenge”. Email: Jennifer@Chevalbleuranch.com. The American Sport Trail Horse Association is a division of Cheval Blue, LLC. We look forward to seeing you there!

10 skills that all horses (especially trail horses) should know Trail Riding is one of the most relaxing and satisfying activities you can do with your horse. Whether you ride through one of our beautiful County parks or just down your own road, nothing makes you feel more connected to your horse. Most horses do prefer the trail to the arena but don't assume that just because your horse is trained, you can head out on trail without any preparation. As in any other discipline, a great trail horse needs experience, and training. Trail training involves both mental and physical exercises that give the horse stamina, teach patience and help to develop a partnership where horse and rider work as a team. 1. Quietly stand tied: Someday an emergency may force you or a stranger to tie your horse for safety reasons. Trailer tying and picket lines are standard practices for horses on the trail. Teach him to stand quietly no matter the obstacle or the angle. I always tie with a rope attached to a halter, never by the reins attached to a bit. Start by tying the horse in a comfortable and secure place, such as his stall, with a quick release snap. Once he accepts being tied, change the angle and raise the rope so that he is tied from above. Next, practice tying to a post or hook in an arena. Keep the rope high enough so that he cannot get his foot over it. Keep increasing the horse's tie time and vary the location. A good trail horse will stand quietly tied to a tree for at least 30 minutes. If you are tying to a picket line, set it up at home and practice before you go on a ride. Never leave a horse tied without proper monitoring. 2. Ground Tie: Trees and posts aren't always available. If you have to dismount for any reason, you don't want your horse wandering off! Teaching a horse to ground tie takes time and patience. Start in an arena or round pen where there are no distractions such as grass, dogs, or horses. I like to teach with a halter and lead. You can either remove the reins or tie them up safely. Dismount, pull the lead down gently and say whoa! Take just one step away and wait 3 seconds. If the horse stays, step forward and praise. Then, take a little walk with the horse and ground tie again, asking for a few more seconds this time. Do not give treats when teaching a ground tie; this is an added distraction for the horse. Your goal is to have him stand quietly with his split reins on the ground. This takes a lot of patience and trust. Don't expect it to happen in a day. 3. Whoa! Teaching a horse a solid “whoa” that comes from your seat and legs is the surest way to get them to stop when needed. Unexpected spooks on a trail such as a deer or wasps can set off even the most relaxed horse. One rein stops should be a last resort, not your first option. Start with a solid whoa from the walk and increase speed until you reach the canter. You must practice the whoa at a canter - the most likely gait that you will be at when you really need it! Sit deep in the saddle, drop your heels, and pull back gently to reinforce your stop. Once mastered, test yourself and your horse by cantering alongside at least two other horses. Will your horse calmly stop and stand if the other two continue to canter on?

4. A steady, quiet, back-up: I recently helped a friend unload a horse that refused to back. He didn't want to back under saddle either. The previous owners had always turned the horse and walked him out of the trailer. Backing is such a necessary basic skill that it should become part of your daily routine. In the herd, backing is a negative movement for a horse, so teaching it must become a quiet, comfortable exercise. Start with a few relaxed steps and advance until you can comfortably back an “S” around barrels. 5. Mount and dismount from both sides: Sounds easy but if you don't do it regularly, your legs just don't want to make the opposite swing over the saddle. Practiced everyday, this soon becomes second nature for both the horse and rider. Your horse may be reluctant at first because you aren't as smooth swinging the left leg over, so be patient. Unless you physically need it, learn to skip the mounting block and step into the saddle on your own. 6. Load in a hurry, saddled or unsaddled: Unfortunately, emergencies happen. Teaching your horse to load saddled may one day be necessary. A sudden storm, fire, or threatening animal may cut your plans short. Make sure your horse can load quickly and quietly. 7. Stand quietly no matter what the rider is doing in the saddle. Make noise opening a water bottle, reading a map, making a phone call, eating a sandwich, removing your jacket, or spraying bug spray. Horses don't like unexpected noises and movement especially from above their backs. You can practice these skills each day by taking breaks in your ride to open a water bottle or rummage through your pockets to get the horse used to sound and motion. 8. Check or adjust the cinch while mounted: Cinches can loosen during a ride. More often, riders forget to check prior to mounting. I stop my horses once during every ride for a cinch safety check. Most of the time, I can tighten it without assistance while mounted. This only works with a quiet horse. Ask your horse to stand square, then reach down and check by sliding a finger under the cinch. If your saddle style doesn't allow for a mounted adjustment, be sure to triple check it before climbing on. 9. Ride in the front, middle and back of line. Horses become creatures of habit. If you always ride in the back of the trail pack, your horse may be reluctant to lead in the front. Change your riding spot and your riding buddy often. This teaches your horse to look to you as his partner and not another equine. 10. Riding double isn't just for kids. Both you and your horse should become comfortable with allowing a second rider to mount up. An injured horse or rider may mean that someone needs to double up. Riding the trails is not only relaxing and fun, but it is the best way establish trust and communication with your horse in a low impact, low stress environment. Even if you can't haul somewhere, enjoy a nice ride in the pasture. As always, wear a helmet and be safe.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 13

Checkerboard Chatter Kirk Dailey KADailey@landolakes.com

with Purina Sales Specialists Kelly Grosskreutz KLGrosskreutz@landolakes.com

Kindra Callahan KCCallahan@landolakes.com

Farewell to an Old Friend

Looking towards McClure Pass, south of Carbondale, CO. pany in the Industry and live in the west that we would pursue it. Well, in July, that opportunity came up and to make a long story short we got the job!

by Kirk Dailey, (with son Clay on Alfalfa) Sales Specialist, Land O Lakes Purina Feeds, LLC

To my beloved customers/dealers/business associates and friends:

I want to take this time to thank you for all you have ever done for me! Many of you have touched my family's lives in ways that you will never know. Thank you for letting a 27 year old country kid make it big in the big city of Chicago! Thanks for your attendance at meetings, your business, faithfulness to PURINA®, and most of all your friendship!

t was November, 1997, when I took over the Chicagoland district from Herman Williams. It is now September, 2012, when I say goodbye to the area that has been extremely good to me and my family. Herman probably said it best, “If it is not happening in Chicago, IL, it probably is not happening anywhere in the WORLD!” This marketplace has it all in terms of horse activities; from racetracks to Grand Prixes, from trail riding to lessons, from polo matches to rodeos.

The world of horse's competes with all other recreational activities…boating, hiking, biking, camping, etc. The recent downturn in the horse industry has many folks not even considering it has a hobby or a vocation anymore. This is a mistake, in my opinion, and I appreciate the things that folks are doing to build back the excitement behind horses. Folks like Frances Bowers, owner and manager of Saddler's Row, who’s latest project has been to feature a “School-Horse of the Month” program at her store locations, highlighting the special horses that are teaching tomorrow's riders. Also folks like Tommy and Debbie McIntyre, who combined ideas with Frances Bowers to start an Academy Show Series of fun shows that feature everything an 'A' show would offer at a minimal charge. These things have been done to build excitement back into our horse world. Thank you Frances and the McIntyre's for thinking outside of the box to bring new comers back to the horse industry in the Greater Chicagoland area. My wife and I recently celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary. We told ourselves that if an opportunity ever came up in Colorado (the place we honeymooned) where we could work for the best feed com-

PURINA® Animal Nutrition, LLC, founded in 1894 on the banks of the Mississippi River in St. Louis MO is founded on the principles that still make it the BEST feed company in the industry. Period! Our 1,188 acre research farm, formed in 1929, is still in existence

The gang from the first Academy Show Series.

today and thriving and striving to produce the best diets for all animals in the world today. We are the ONLY feed company that can say that we have a RESEARCH farm of that SIZE and SCALE. The PURINA® Animal Nutrition Research Farm allows us the benefits of setting industry standards in growth/reproduction, performance, and palatability on all animal feeds, most notably horse feeds. PLEASE do not fall victim to fancy marketing, trendy names or imitations. There's a reason they say theirs, “Is just like PURINA® Horse Feed only cheaper!” Think about it! Those that aren’t sure, please call Paul Homb or Kindra Callahan and start a See the Difference Feeding Trial today. In 60 to 90 days let your horses (or any other animal you’re feeding) tell you PURINA® Animal Nutrition Feeds are the best! Thank you all and God Bless! The Dailey's

Photo courtesy of CJM Photo

14 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

True love can turn you around How do you define your horse/human relationship?

Personality Test • Dating Quiz • Strengths Finder • Career Assessment • Social Color• Love Languages by Kindra Callahan

My thoughts:

e are continuously looking to assess the personality types around us in an attempt to achieve better understanding and increased opportunity for a successful relationship. And a successful relationship is usually defined and enhanced by the ability of two parties to communicate. We’ve listed several specific methods of personality assessment above.

• Little do they know; I've been learning via observation the whole time

Have you ever found yourself utilizing one of the aforementioned avenues to define your significant other, understand your best friend or communicate strong attributes in an employee?

The day of my scheduled natural horsemanship lesson with Jerry finally arrived. Boy was I nervous and excited! I had never done anything like this before and I wasn't sure what to expect. I have been around horses my entire life but I know I have a lot to learn!

• I thrive on opportunities for increased education and appreciation of various techniques • Rock on! So, I agreed to a lesson from Jerry the next time I was working in their area.

As horse people we strive for strong communication with our animals too; especially with performance horses. One example where you might find a strong need for effective communication is in the reining pen.

Jerry was not the strong silent man I had expected to find when I showed up that day. His passion and understanding for what he does continued to radiate stronger and stronger as the lesson progressed. Jerry and his seven year old gelding, Scout, lead me through my first natural horsemanship ground lesson. We worked through the different personality types: (Extroverted, Introverted, Left-Brain or Right-Brain) while playing a few of the seven different games to better communicate with our horses.

To rein a horse is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement. How could we be more successful in dictating our horses' movements? Maybe, like with our colleagues and peers, we need to better understand how our horses communicate as individuals and which level of communication best suits their personality? Have you ever looked into better understanding “Horsenality™”, Pat Parelli's term to define our horses' personalities?

Jerry, Scout and Kindra.

I recently came to know Debbie Campbell and Jerry Brignardello with True Love Natural Horse Center. True Love was a prospect of Leo's Feed & Garden Center. This spring, True Love completed a Purina 60 day feeding trial with Strategy GX.

The highlight was when the process finally clicked! The light bulb turned on, and I was able to manipulate the direction in which Scout moved without any physical pressure against his body - a horse that I had just met and hardly knew anything about! I practically squealed with delight while Debbie giggled in the background and said, “She gets it”! I really took a lot away from my lesson and at home I tried to assess what my geldings’ “Horsenalities” might be. I have found many aspects of the program applicable with some of our individual horses and have enjoyed learning a new piece of our ever evolving horse industry.

Throughout the trial each time I visited True Love I learned more about their horses and approach to improving horses' lifestyles though the education of horse owners. The ultimate goal is to become better horseman through natural horsemanship. On multiple occasions Debbie would give me pointers on how I moved around or cued the animals.

If you have been looking for a new way to work with your “True Love”, I suggest giving natural horsemanship a shot and seeking out some of the great local resources we have.

At the conclusion of our trial Debbie made one simple request stating that she had enjoyed learning from me and completing the feeding trial with Purina, and now she wanted me to give their lessons a chance to teach me.

To learn more about True Love Natural Horse Center check out http://truelovehorses.com/

Scout demonstrating one of his many talents.

SENSIBLE HORSE SHELTERS™ Custom Built Horse/Livestock Shelters

Portable Reasonably Priced Quick Delivery Well Made (No assembly required) For More Information Contact: Three Different Types With Mike Grossman, 25537 52nd St., Salem, WI 53168 Different Options Available 262/537-3402 www.sensiblehorseshelters.com

Do you have news or upcoming events to share? Email it to Midwest Horse Source: mwhorsesource@gmail.com Or enter it on our website:

GREMLIN FARMS Full Line MAZURI Dealer 815/732-6360 • cell: 847/ 912-7692 • Toll Free: 800/232-7631 1892 S. Chana Rd. • Chana, IL 61015 www.gremlinfarms.com

FREE DELIVERY with min. order. Top quality Pine Shavings - LOWEST PRICES

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

by Felicia Clement

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 15

The Perfect Round

Add a new dimension to your training. Go on a trail ride!

Is it reasonable for me to actively trail ride my fancy show hunter or will he risk injury in the process? Lillian; Mettawa, Illinois

Anytime you have the opportunity to ride your horse outside of an arena you should take it if the situation is safe and your judgement is sound. It doesn't matter if you own a designated trail horse or a show horse because the horse doesn't know the difference. I am sure, after a while, that horses get as bored of going around and around the same old arena, practicing the same old stuff as you do; especially show horses who truly do need to be constantly exposed to different things and alternative environments. Trail riding is a great way to achieve just that. Physically, I don’t see any real risk. On the contrary, a nice long relaxing hack on a trail or in a field could be far better for your horse than that extra jumping day in the arena. Show horses, especially hunters and high level Dressage horses, almost never

get to just be horses because of the money invested in them. It would be nice if they didn't always get treated with kid gloves and were able to get more enjoyment out of their existence, finding that there is more to life than just than going in circles. I also bet that some of those show hunters might stay a little sounder and have less lameness issues if they regularly had exposure to the less than perfect footing that a trail could provide. I would not suggest just an occasional trail ride for your show hunter but include it in his weekly regiment–year round if possible–except for days when obviously poor conditions were present. Not only does it get you out of the arena and off the property, it will add another dimension to the partnership that you share as horse and rider. Thank you for the interesting question.

Submit your questions about riding hunters and dressage horses to The Perfect Round. Email to: mwHorseSource@gmail.com

MIDWEST

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 22 - Fall Round-up Show, FVSA in Hampshire, IL. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/ SEPTEMBER 22 - Green River Saddle Club Trail Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit http://www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com. SEPTEMBER 22 - 5th Annual Boone County 4-H Fun Show, Boone Co. Fairgrounds, Belvidere, IL. Contact Donna 779/772-3023, Kim 815/540-3060, or Lori 815/558-9284. SEPTEMBER 22 - Northern Illinois Outlaw Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Chasin' The Smokin' Gun, CMSA DWPQ, Amber Sun Acres, Malta, IL. www.northernillinoisoutlaws.com. SEPTEMBER 23 - Green River Saddle Club Chili Ride, Amboy, IL. Contact Jack 815/970-1658. Visit http://www.greenriversaddleclub.webs.com. SEPTEMBER 22-23 - Illinois Paint Horse Show Paint-O-Rama/Futurity. **Gordyville USA, Gifford, IL. Contact Show Mgr: Jerry Wyrick 309/826-3643 or JWyrick300@ctechinternet.com. (**not a year-end high-point qual. show). Visit www.illinoispainthorse.com. SEPTEMBER 22-23 - Dressage at Lamplight, Wayne, IL. Contact Lloyd Landkamer 612/290-8523 or DressageShowInfo@aol.com. SEPTEMBER 23 - IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Mini Event Finals, Silverwood Farm, IDCTA's Show Camp Lake, WI. Contact Debbie Garris 312/401-1157 or DGarris@HorseShowSolutions.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. SEPTEMBER 23 - Four Winds Equestrian Center Open Horse Show, Salem, WI. Contact Teri, General Manager, 262/537-2262 or teri@4wec.com. Visit www.4wec.com. SEPTEMBER 23 - FVSA Open Show #4, Hampshire, IL. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/. SEPTEMBER 23 - Bull Run Equestrian Center Horse Show Series, Show #3, Bull Run Equestrian Center, Elburn, IL. Contact Lynda Zema 630 /365-1376. Visit www.bullrunec.com. SEPTEMBER 23 - KWI Saddle Club Show, Halter, Pleasure & Working Horse Classes, Kankakee, IL. Visit http://kwisaddleclub.com/. SEPTEMBER 27-30 - NIHJA Finals, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/events.html. SEPTEMBER 28-30 - 6th Annual All Breed Trail Ride, Green River Saddle Club Grounds, Amboy IL. Contact Heidi Coop, Co-Director 630/294-1228 or Buckskin83@aol.com OR Irene Wachowski, Co-Director 630/554-8219 or iwachowski@pclosures.com. Visit www.ilqha.com. SEPTEMBER 28-30 - Northern Illinois Outlaw Cowboy Mounted Shooting, NIO Sponsors CMSA Illinois State Finals, Double G Arena, Sterling, IL. www.northernillinoisoutlaws.com. SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 1 - Alex Gerding Clinic, Touchstone Farm, Brooklyn, WI. Contact Caryn Vesperman 608/455-2208 or touchstonefarm@gmail.com. SEPTEMBER 29 - IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact Elizabeth Kieffer 262-857-8555 office@sunflowerfarms.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/ or http://www.sunflowerfarms.com/. SEPTEMBER 29 - Better Barrel Racing Clinic, Cripple Creek Ranch, Harvard, IL. Contact Christy 815/943-4513 or 847/533-4513. SEPTEMBER 29 - Spring Grove Horse Show Pleasure Show, Horse Fair Park, Spring Grove, IL. Contact 815/ 675-6048. Visit www.springgrovehorseshow.com. SEPTEMBER 29-30 - Silverwood Dressage Shows, USEF/USDF recognized, Intro Grand Prix, Silverwood Farm, Camp Lake, WI. Contact Lisa Cannata 847/235-6410 or dressage@silverwoodfarm.net. Visit www.silverwoodfarm.net.

OCTOBER OCTOBER 5-6 - Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Ulrich Schmitz "S" Dressage, Oct. 6* (SH) Ulrich Schmitz "r" Sport Horse, USEF/USDF Recognized, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com. OCTOBER 6-7 - Dressage at Lamplight, Wayne, IL. Contact Lloyd Landkamer 612/2908523 or DressageShowInfo@aol.com. Visit http://lamplightequestriancenter.com/. OCTOBER 7 - IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage & CT Finals, Fields & Fences, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121 or Anita@FieldsAndFences.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. OCTOBER 8 - General Meeting, Guest Speaker MCCD Representative 7:00 p.m., Hooved Animal Humane Society, Woodstock, IL. Visit Mchenrycountyhorseclub.com. Calendar continued on page 17

16 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

CORRAL BUSINESS LISTINGS BOARDING /TRAINING

BOARDING /TRAINING

PHOTOGRAPHY/ARTWORK

Spring Willow Farm • One of Kenosha County’s finest equestrian facilities • 10 minutes north of the Illinois state line, 25 minutes from Milwaukee or Lake Geneva • All day turnout w/5 ac. pastures • Outdoor/heated indoor rings

• 100 acres: trails through uplands, lowlands, wetlands, woodlands, streams, ponds, fields • Friendly, congenial, adultoriented atmosphere • Hunter/Jumper/Dressage Training available

Open 7 days, caretakers and owners on premises 2002 Hwy 45, Paris Corners, Wisconsin • 262-878-1288

SpringWillow.com I NSURANCE

BOARDING /TRAINING

HORSE BOARDING Woodstock, Illinois

First class facility with a large heated indoor arena and heated wash racks. Daily turnouts in oak fenced paddocks. Outside track, pastures and trails. Excellent, professional care at very reasonable rates.

John White Stables (815) 648-4458 SERVICES

FENCING Hardwood Split Rail & Plank Triple Crown Vinyl Ornamental Composite Decking Sunesta Retractable Awnings Interlocking Rubber Pavers

e-mail:chicorycreek@jcwifi.com website: designerdecksandfence.com

MIDWEST

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Boarding Attention Trail Riders: One stall available on quiet, private farm w/direct access to Lakewood Forest Preserve trails. Daily turnout. Excellent care. Retired horses welcome. $425/mo. Call 847/526-0658. Looking for quality care pasture boarding? 24 hour hay in the winter and very large pastures in the summer. Individually fed 6 days a week with Spirit Plus nutrition. Large indoor arena, outdoor arena, outdoor round pen and trails. Experienced owner lives on premises. Natural horsemanship and riding lessons available.A beautiful and relaxing place for your and your horse in Woodstock. $305 per month. Call Jodi 815/210-1309. Check diamondacreshhl.com for upcoming events.

Feed & Bedding Wood Shavings for horse bedding delivered by the dump load. Call Tony 630/885-3059. Wood Shavings for cow bedding delivered by the walking-floor semi loads. Call Dave 708/258-9973.

Help Wanted Lifestyle Production Specialist (NE IL) Land O’Lakes Purina Feed LLC, North America’s leading feed company, seeks a part-time feed sales specialist for Will, Southern Cook and Northern Kankakee Counties. 2 days/week. Performance horses products exp. req. Prior sales exp., show feed and pet feed exp. preferred. Apply online to Req #14748 at: www.landolakesinc.com/careers. Lifestyle Production Specialist (NW IN) Land O’Lakes Purina Feed LLC, North America’s leading feed company, seeks a part-time feed sales specialist for Northwest Indiana region (based at Cedar Lake). 2 days/week. Performance horses products exp. req. Prior sales exp., show feed and pet feed exp. preferred. Apply online to Req #14008 at: www.landolakesinc.com/careers.

Horse Property Wonderful country home on 10.22 acres just 1.5 miles from New Glarus, WI, 1.5 miles from the golf course, and .5 miles to the State Bike Trail. Pasture lean-to and 36x64 building with 2 stalls. www.fsbomadison.com/15974.

Your Business Card Ad should be here! Midwest HORSE SOURCE

CLASSIFIED RATES $5.00 per line Minimum insertion: 3 lines, $15.00 35 characters or spaces per line. Pre-payment required. Make checks payable to Midwest Horse Source.

Submit all classified copy to:: Midwest Horse Source 18209 Collins Rd. Woodstock, IL 60098 Or Email to: mwhorsesource@gmail.com

TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE CORRAL, send us a business card (either by mail or email a j-peg) and enclose payment:

3 ISSUES @$105 or 6 ISSUES @$200 Please make checks payable to: MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

QUESTIONS: NEXT DEADLINE: WEEK OF OCTOBER 29

Call Sandy at 815/568-6772 or Email: MWHorseSource@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 17

MIDWEST

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

From the Side of the Trail by Kandee Haertel

My New Life with Suzannah

Thank you all for your kind sentiments when I lost The Lady last January. Our accomplishments, both as eventual partners and as advocates together, will be difficult of match. She was truly a very special horse who was my friend, partner, and therapist for 25 years. I think of her often - and only with love and gratitude. She was a VERY special horse to me. On April 22, 2012, Suzannah was delivered to Horsepower Farm and really, truly became my new horse. Since that time, Suzannah truly deserves the accolade “awesome” whenever we are together. When I first rode her at Hacienda Molinaro, I fell in love with her. We were total strangers to each other, but the “click” was there. Speed changes, backing, turning, and everything else done with ease - except when the rider was at fault. Even then she was very forgiving. While she made it clear that the rider had messed up, she actually seemed to like me. The very worst thing she did was shake her head or stop a bit too quickly. When I my cues really confused her, she would simply stop as if to say, “Okay. What is it you want?” Since those first rides in Missouri, we have both changed and grown to enjoy each other. I can honestly say both of us are enjoying each other because I take her meeting me at the gate when she sees me walking out to the pasture, the way she drops her head willingly into the halter, and other small signs that she thinks I'm an okay human to be with. After our ride, if I hang by the gate, so does she. The only things that Suzannah and The Lady have in common are that they are both Paso Fino mares. Suzannah is a bit stouter than The Lady and about an inch shorter. The Lady came into my life as a green broke 2-1/2 year old. Suzannah was 12 last January. Suzannah was shown up to the national level for the first several years of her life, had two foals, was trail ridden and even went camping. The Lady wouldn't know what a show ring was, but was hands down one of the boldest, bravest trail horses ever. Suzannah came to me beautifully trained. The Lady's training (good and bad) came solely from me. In short, these two mares are almost nothing alike. Learning to ride The Lady also taught me a lot because, in hindsight, I can honestly say the she and I put each other through hell and back several times. What The Lady taught me has made me a rider who does not panic at the slightest problem, which translates well to working with a new horse. A saying in the Paso Fino breed as that the horses should be “gentle at hand and fiery under saddle.” The fiery part is known as “brio.” The Lady had attitude (probably from my training) but Suzannah has brio in spades! What a blast she is to ride! Because of her brio, several people told me that she would never be a trail horse. They couldn't have been more wrong. When we head out, I can feel her asking, “where are we going and what are we going to see?” She's not spooky, just interested in what's around her. The one difficulty that we are working through is that when she is around other saddled horses, she sometimes feels that she is back in the show ring. Her hooves pound out a perfect tight gait as fast as she can so that everyone will know that she is the best. When that happens, I simply sit calmly in the saddle and turn her in circles, or serpentines, or another other maneuver that brings her mind back to me and the task of moving along the trail at the gait I want. She's not the least bit scary to me when she does her “frantics” as one friend called it because she is not bolting, bucking, or anything dangerous, simply setting herself up to win the class she thinks she is competing in. Even the episodes of frantics are diminishing in number and length as we begin to work more together. The franctics have also provided me with the opportunity to stay calm and do simple exercises to bring her back to me. That isn't as simple as it sounds for someone with a tendency to become stronger rather than softer when my horse is not doing what I want! During the four short months we have been together we have covered all of the trails at Horsepower to the point that they are almost too familiar to us. Now we are venturing out on The Territory trails and having new adventures. This week I plan to do something that I have not been able to do in over three years - make the round trip to my house and include a lunch break at home. The Lady's Cushings kept us from making some of the longer rides that are available here, but that is definitely not the case with Suzannah, who is fit and healthy. That lunch will be a real celebration for me because I will feel like I am definitely back on the trail, and not simply on the sidelines of great riding any more. Yes, The Lady will ALWAYS be very special, but Suzannah already definitely has a place in my life and heart. Yep! See you on the trail.

Continued from page 15

OCTOBER 8-9 - Pinto Breed Show & Pinto Open Show, FVSA in Hampshire, IL. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/. OCTOBER 11-14 - Bettina Drummond Clinic, Sunflower Farms, Bristol, WI. Contact 262/857-8555. Visit http://www.sunflowerfarms.com/. OCTOBER 12-14 - Sommers Gate Farms Roping & Cattle Working Clinic with Mark Schwarm, Vandalia, IL. Contact Lea R. Sommers 618/644-5859. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com. OCTOBER 12-14 - Janet Foy Clinic, Judd's Green Meadows Farm, Belleville, WI. Contact Mary Hanneman 608/455-1037 or mahanneman@gmail.com. OCTOBER 12-14 - Equine or Small Animal Acupressure and TCM Courses, Paddock Hills Equestrian Center, Union, IL. Contact 888/841-7211. Visit www.animalacupressure.com. OCTOBER 12-14 - Healing Touch for Animals Level 1 course, Westmont IL. Contact Coordinator Kathy Tanouye, 847-373-9255 or ChicagoIl@healingtouchforanimals.com. Visit www.healingtouchforanimals.com. OCTOBER 13 - Dressage and Sport Horse Show, Michelle Sieracki "L", Schooling Show, Sorensen Equestrian Park LLC, East Troy, WI. Contact Reid Sorensen - Show Manager 262/642-4111. Visit sorensenpark.com. OCTOBER 13 - Spring Grove Horse Show Fun & Action Show, Horse Fair Park, Spring Grove, IL. Contact 815/ 675-6048. Visit www.springgrovehorseshow.com. OCTOBER 13 - KWI Saddle Club Gaming Show, Pole Bending and Barrel Racing, Kankakee, IL. Visit http://kwisaddleclub.com/. OCTOBER 13-14 - Northern Illinois Outlaw Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Wild West Demo and NIO Booth, Danada Equestrian Center. www.northernillinoisoutlaws.com. OCTOBER 14 - FVSA Dressage Schooling Show, Hampshire, IL. Contact Gail Gardner 630/830-0790. Visit http://www.fvsa.org/. OCTOBER 14 - IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Dressage, Fox Valley Saddle Association, Hampshire, IL. Contact Gail Gardner 630/830-0790 or eyeevent@sbcglobal.net. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/. OCTOBER 15-18 - Five Element, Meridians and Specfic Conditions, Paddock Hills Equestrian Center, Union, IL. Contact 888/841-7211. Visit www.animalacupressure.com. OCTOBER 20 - First Responder Training at HAHS, Woodstock, IL. Visit Mchenrycountyhorseclub.com. OCTOBER 20-21 - IDCTA Dressage Clinic with Jan Brink, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Debbie Garris 312/401-1157. Visit www.idcta.org. OCTOBER 21 - Octoberfest Driving Trial, Woodstock, IL. Contact Sue West 815/3374617 or jswestwindfarm@aol.com. OCTOBER 21 - Obstacle Challenge Course, Cripple Creek Ranch, Harvard, IL. Contact Christy 815/943-4513 or 847/533-4513. OCTOBER 21 - Over 40 Open Horse Show, Four Winds Equestrian Center, Salem, WI. Contact Teri at 262/537-2262 or teri@4wec.com. OCTOBER 28 - Halloween Trail Ride. Hickory Grove Highlands, IL. Visit Mchenrycountyhorseclub.com. OCTOBER 29 - IDCTA Schooling Show Series, Mini Event & CT, Geneva Equestrian, Lake Geneva, WI. Contact Cindy Bonamarte 262/245-6490 or genevaequestrian@msn.com. Visit http://www.idcta.org/schooling/.

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2-4 - Sommers Gate Farms Dressage & Meditation Retreat with Judy Tippett, Vandalia, IL. Contact Lea R. Sommers 618/644-5859. Visit www.sommersgatefarms.com. NOVEMBER 2-4 - Three Day FEEL and RELEASE Horsemanship clinic with Karen Musson, Spirits Whisper Acres Farm, Kingston, IL. Contact Ginger Romano 847/6832966. Visit www.theartofriding.com. NOVEMBER 2-4 - Three Day FEEL and RELEASE Horsemanship clinic with Karen Musson, Spirits Whisper Acres Farm, Kingston, IL Contact Ginger Romano 847/683-2966 or Karen Musson at www.theartofriding.com. NOVEMBER 10 - Four Winds Equestrian Center Western Dressage Clinic with Heather Lekan, Salem, WI. Contact Teri at 262/537-2262 or teri@4wec.com. NOVEMBER 10-11 - Frank Madden Hunt Seat Equitation Clinic, Fields & Fences Equestrian Center, Gurnee, IL. Contact Anita Schadeck 847/244-4121. Visit http://www.fieldsandfences.com/events.html. NOVEMBER 10-11 - Horse at Balance Clinic, The Horse First Farm, Brooklyn, WI. Contact Rosanne Korinek 262/375-4451 or horses@lakefieldfarm.com. www.equineatparr.com.

18 MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE

GREENER PASTURES

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

HORSE PROPERTIES

REALTOR’S CORRAL Your business card should be here! Contact Sandy for details. mwhorsesource@gmail.com 815/568-6772

Find your dream horse property here...

Shop in ‘Greener Pastures’ Prestigious and Private 5 Acre Equestrian Estate

5 year old beautiful custom home. Immaculate clean! 3 bedroom, 4 bath, 2900 sq. plus finished basement with bedroom. Open floor plan, beautiful kitchen custom cabinets, floor to ceiling windows. Backs up to a tree nursery. Horse trails nearby. 5 min. to metra, 8 min. to tollway, 5 min. to shopping, 8 min. to Geneva Commons, Geneva/Elburn, IL.

If you’re looking to buy or sell a HORSE PROPERTY, you’ll want to call me first!! It doesn’t matter whether it is a smaller farmette type, a boarding stable, or land zoned for horses, I have the properties and/or connections to help you. I’ve been in Real Estate for 22 years and prior to that I was in the horse business. I know how to market your property and I will understand when you tell me what you and your horses need. Call or e-mail if you would like my “Tips on Buying Horse Properties” sent to you or to be put on my list for new and future listings.

KAY FELDMAR

Office: 847/557-1626 Cell: 847/224-5311 Licensed in IL & WI

Visit my website: www.horsescallithome.com Email me at: Kfeldmar@koenigstrey.com

Morton custom built 6+ 12x12 stall barn with office, tack room, wash rack, heated bathroom. 54x72 trailer/storage barn, room for extra stalls. 72x120 indoor arena with sliding windows, 3 large sliding doors and 2 overhead doors. Round pen, 4 paddocks, 2 large pastures, Gardner vinyl fencing. $1,100,000 nmuno10@yahoo.com 630/772-1025

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

MIDWEST HORSE SOURCE 19

Class Act

Local Horse Enthusiasts and Student Pair up to Film a Movie

Photos and text Janice Fischer

n a wonderful, yet unique collaboration, Columbia College students and local horse enthusiasts paired up to film "The Last Rider" in McHenry County this past August. The film is for student Sebastian Keck's "Independent Project" class at Columbia College. It is not an easy task to make a film and if you throw in horses and riding it gets even more complicated. Especially for a student on a budget. That is what makes this film so unique.

Maggie Orton on Hero, her Thoroughbred and Tawney Denn on Twist her Quarter Horse Gelding.

"The Last Rider" is set in the late 1800's and is about the last piece of unclaimed land in the United States. Keck came up with the idea after being inspired by an old Pony Express poster. It involves Native American Indians, love and of course horses. Having to come up with horses and riders he decided to post flyers at local barns and feed stores. Tawney Denn, a trainer from White Spring Farm, saw one of the flyers and was intrigued. She contacted Keck and he decided to use four horses from her barn. Safety was a big concern and Tawney helped him choose the appropriate horse for the appropriate role. The horses needed no special training for the film, as their normal training includes a lot of ground work and getting used to various objects, but some of the actors need a little training. Tawney therefore provided the lead actor, Samsoche Sampson, with riding lessons. Two horses were also provided by Mark Killick and Mary Lane and one by Chelsey Fowler.

In between takes, Greta, a Standardbred/Begian owned by Chelsey Fowler gets a close up of James Thompson's sound equipment.

The crew and cast filming a still shot.

Several others in the community saw the flyers and pitched in to help by providing usage of land and facilities, as well as donating time and money. Keck envisioned this being a community event and he succeeded. The generosity and camaraderie from the horse community helped him bring his story to life and he is very grateful for that. For more information on this film go to: indiegogo.com/lastridermidwest

Stunt double, Casey Kantenwein on Allie, a Paint mare, performs a running scene.

Wrangler, owned by Mary Lane and Mark Kilick of Woodstock, patiently waits while crew gets final measurement before filming. Director Sebastian Keck at far right.

23803 Grange Rd., Marengo, IL 60152

Weird dreams...

BOARDING, LESSONS, TRAINING, LEASING, SALES Now offering: LEARN TO TRAIN HORSES Saturday Classes, ALL SKILL LEVELS AND DISCIPLINES WELCOME, our horses or yours, presented by Julie Realy using true horsemanship through feel.

Call for more info or reservations 815/568-0017 jsrequine@gmail.com www.goldengaitstable.com

Midwest

Horse Source

Connecting all breeds and disciplines of the Midwest Horse Industry

IOWA DEALERS 1. Horse and Hound Country Store Ltd. Burlington, IA 319/752-6611

DEALER LOCATOR MAP

WISCONSIN DEALERS 1. Premier Cooperative Lancaster, WI 608/723-7023

6 3

2. Premier Cooperative Mineral Point, WI 608/987-3100

3. Premier Cooperative Mount Horeb, WI 608/437-5536 11

4. Oregon Farm Center Oregon, WI 608/251-9657

5. Claws 2 Paws Animal Supply LLC Stoughton, WI 608/873-8014

8 9

Horn Bros. Inc. Muskego, WI 262/679-1717

14 17

8. Landmark Services Co-op Elkhorn, WI 262/723-3150

23 19 22 1

20 21

12. Horn Trevor Feeds Inc. Trevor, WI 262/862-2616

9. Sublette Farmers Elevator Company Sublette, IL 815/849-5222

19. Feed n Time Chebanse, IL 815/697-3231

ILLINOIS DEALERS 1. M and W Feed Service Ltd. Elizabeth, IL 815/858-2412

10. Northern Partners Cooperative Mendota/Triumph, IL 815/5539-1085 11. Brothers Country Supply Ottawa, IL 815/433-3775 12. Midland Crossing Mercantile Newark, IL 815/695-1130 13. D & H Ag. The Country Store See ad below Yorkville, IL 630/553-5826 14. Tri-County Stockdale Co. See ad page 12 Joliet, IL 815/436-8600 15. Ludwigs Feed Store Lemont, IL 630/257-3097 16. Capital Pet Food & Supply Country Club Hills, IL 708/798-4800 17. Most Feeds and Gardens Crete, IL 708/672-8181 18. Andres & Wilton Farmers Grain & Supply Peotone, IL 708/258-3268

20. Earlybird Feed & Fertilizer Goodfield, IL 888/893-3450

3. Woodstock Farm & Lawn Woodstock, IL 815/338-4200 4. Leader Ace Hardware Fox River Grove, IL 847/639-4431 5. Grayslake Feed Sales Inc. Grayslake, IL 847/223-4855 6. Animal Feed and Needs Arlington Heights, IL 847/437-4738 7.

Trellis Farm and Garden LLC St. Charles, IL 630/584-2024

8. Elburn Co-op Feed Store Elburn, IL 630/365-1424

2 3

11. Main Street Country Store Walworth, WI 262/275-0620

2. Cherry Valley Feed and Supplies Inc. Cherry Valley, IL 815/332-7665

9. Landmark Services Co-op Burlington, WI 800/800-3521 10 Landmark Services Co-op Union Grove, WI 262/878-5720

5 4 7

6. Frontier FS Cooperative Ixonia, WI 920/261-1718 7.

12 3

Start your foals out right... ...with Purina Ultium Growth!

21. Paws Claws and Exotics Too Pekin, IL 309/925-3111 22. Country Feed & Supplies Princeville, IL 309/385-3333 23. Reynolds Feed & Supply Reynolds, IL 309/372-4414 24. H&H Feeds Stronghurst, IL 309/924-2521 INDIANA DEALERS 1. Karp’s Garden and Feed Hobart, IN 219/942-2033 2. Crown Feed & Supply, Inc. Crown Point, IN 219/663-0139 3. Leo’s Feed and Garden Cedar Lake, IN 219/374-6757

Call today to set up a feeding trial and get a quote on the products you need.

815.436.8600 25520 Black Road Joliet, IL Just 2 miles west of Rt. 59 on Black Road Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-6 • Sat. 8-4 • Sun. 10-2