President's Message

Submitted by Dan Moriarty

The snow is starting to melt and now we worry about flooding and at my house it's copious amounts of MUD!! I hope everyone is surviving the trials and tribulations of a challenging winter. Hopefully spring is coming shortly. As it comes we can start getting out and doing more with our friends(the horse) and the neighbors(our other friends). I know plans are being made for shows, both performance and games, getting to a trail for that first ride of the season and for some in the breeding business, the arrival of the ever precious babies!

For those of you in the games division, Melissa Stockman, our Division chair and Jessie, my/our VP are looking forward to working with any games people in need of direction/help. Please, don't be afraid to use their great talent and experience to help get going.

As our season gets underway, have fun and enjoy. Keep seeking those new/returning members. That special table awaits the winner!

Until next time, Happy Trails

Dan

Competitive Trail Division

Submitted by Kathy Camarrano

OK, I have ridden the last 2 days, so my conditioning plan has officially begun. If you can't find me at home you will probably be able to catch up with me out on a trail somewhere on a horse. Well, that's the plan anyway.

British Columbia Competitive Trail Association has their ride calendar up on their site. Looks like they have plenty of rides up there. They are a real fun group to ride with and I thoroughly enjoyed myself there last year. We also used their scoring system extensively this last winter while we were updating ours. I am really excited to see how everyone likes them at the rides this year. Andrea and her committee did a great job combining the best aspects of all the score sheets that we had available. Our main goal was to make a score sheet that the riders would be able to take home and really have a good picture of how their horse performed at that ride. Feel free to let us know after the ride what you think as we will be evaluating it at the end of the season and are very much open to constructive criticism.

We are planning to try and have our rides also sanctioned by the Arabian Horse Association this year in order for all you riders with Arabians to get your horses qualified for the Region V Championship CTR. It will be held in Kalispell, Montana again this year and is planned for Sept. 8, 2008. Another exciting event this year will be the Rocky Mountain Challenge. It will include the Canadian National AHA CTR Championship. That event will be July 31-August 4th near Calgary, Alberta, Canada. For more information on this ride you can visit www.canadiannationals.org

Shadow's Dance WSH/AHA CTR will be June 28-29th at Capitol Forest out of Fall Creek Campground. Open Division/AHA 20-30 miles, Novice 15-20 miles. Contact Andrea Hurn at 253-405-8659 or by e-mail at for more information.

I have tentatively secured Pilchuck Tree Farm in Arlington, WA for a WSH/AHA CTR on July 12-13, 2008 on the Lake Armstrong tract. Contact Kathryn Cammarano at 360-668-9631 or for more info regarding this ride.

For those WSH members who may live in Eastern Washington, especially along the Eastern border, another great group for you to ride with is Hooves & Company. They put on several great CTR's each year in Montana. They put on a wonderful ride and those rides can be used by our members to qualify for WSH year end CTR awards. They will be sending me their ride information as soon as it is available. They do not have a website as yet but can get information from the Tri Arabian Horse Club website at www.triarabian.org.

By the time you read this issue of the Canter we will have had our spring meeting and we will have more details on the upcoming rides present at that meeting. This year it is graciously being hosted by the Meridian Riding Club in Puyallup, WA. It will be on Sunday, March 2nd at 1 PM. They have a great website that you can visit for directions and information at www.meridianridingclub.org

Also, stay tuned to the Canter and the WSH website for updated information regarding the ride calendar. The WSH website address is www.wshorsemen.com. There you can download information about competitive trail and our current rulebook which also has lot's of information regarding conditioning and preparing for your first Competitive Trail Ride. You also have access to information on CTR and Endurance at our Lacamas Trail & Distance Rider's website. That address is http://www.freewebs.com/ltdr/

Hope to see you all soon at a ride or on a trail.

Later, Kathy & Nick

Horse Show Division

Submitted by Dawn Spencer, Director

Only a month until the first show, I'm really hoping the snow will melt by then. The first show is April 5 & 6 at Spanaway. The second show will be held April 26 & 27 in Yakima. While you are on the website reading the Canter, you can see the upcoming show list & check to see if there is a link for the premiums to the shows you will be attending.

So let's get ready for a great horse show season. Remember that safety should be your #1 concern at all times, not only at the shows but getting to and from them also. Allow plenty of travel time and have your trailer and tow vehicles in good working order.

When you are at the show, please be prepared to follow the rules. The 2008 Supplements are printed and ready to be distributed.

I don't know about you, but I am excited to see old friends and I will be striving to make new ones. Good luck and have a memorable year.

Also, I want to remind everyone, especially new members that in order for you to qualify for Year End Awards you must complete and send in the High Score Awards Sign Up Form that can be printed off of the WSH website or obtained by contacting either your Zone President's or the Horse Show Director. Joining WSH doesn't automatically sign you up for year end awards. For more information contact Dawn at 509-773-6557 or .

One other reminder, if you are a show secretary or show manager and you would like to put your show entry forms on the WSH website, then be sure to e-mail them in either PDF or Word Format to Christine at and we'll get the information posted.

Exhibitors-be sure to check the website under Divisions/Horse Show/Forms and Downloads for show entries, 2008 Rulebook Supplement and all the sign up forms.

Amateur Cards- This year the process to obtain an Amateur Card changed. Please note this change. Amateur Card fees must accompany the Amateur Certification form and be sent directly to the Horse Show Director rather than the WSH Secretary. If you have previously sent your amateur fee to the WSH Secretary they will be forwarded to the Horse Show Director.

Games Division Report

Submitted by Melissa Stockman

Well I think we may see the light at the end of the tunnel. It has been a CRAZY winter. I myself will be excited to see the ground! It has been hard to think about the show season when the snow is above my knees and still coming down.

We have the place, date, and location for our Washington State Championship Show. Now we need to get all the show dates in and hit the pavement for sponsors. I have had lots of help offered which is fantastic and we have talked with many new members. Remember that there is the membership drive going on for WSH, so talk with your friends and let them know what a wonderful family-oriented organization we belong to.

We now are recognizing all of our youth at the WSCS in August...yes, Buckaroo and Leadline will ride! Wait until you see the smiles on the kids' faces.

The judge's and timer's test will be on-line soon so get your WSH membership in so that you are eligible to take the test. Thanks to the work of Jessie and Dale McLaughlin...the on-line clinic is ready to go. A third member has been appointed to the Rules Committee and I couldn't be more ecstatic! Chuck Hayes joins Dale McLaughlin and Linda Fonville - just one more position remains and we'd love to see a westside representative fill this spot. If you are interested please let me know.

Also, after the Northeast Zone's last monthly meeting we took time to discuss the Washington State Championship Show (WSCS). In past years the problem has been finding enough volunteers and committee members to help plan this event but that's not necessarily the case this year. We find ourselves with just the opposite. Many of you that work for larger companies and organizations know how hard it is to come to decisions with large boards. With this in mind, I have decided that we need to put in place an official WSCS Planning Committee.

I feel that we can accomplish this task via e-mail thus eliminating the need for travel and huge phone bills and we can appoint members across the entire State! We need about five people to combine their thoughts and determine how we want the WSCS run. It's easy to stick with the "way we've done it before" but this year we have a huge opportunity to change the way our finals will be run should we desire. The Planning Committee's purpose will be to iron out the way we will operate the show from qualifications to award systems and everything in between. When the Committee has finalized their thoughts, the "final plan" will be returned to the body for acceptance.

For those that have volunteered to assist with WSCS in areas such as the golf tournament, awards, judges / timers, gate help, office help, programs, and more...thank you! I look forward to working with you this year as we proceed towards the best WSCS ever.

Please contact me at if you are willing to serve on the Planning Committee or willing to volunteer in another area (or if you have suggestions for the WSCS that you would like to pass along). Again, I want to thank everyone for your input, advice, and suggestions thus far...we are moving this Division ahead in a great way and it is due to all of you!

2008 WSH Games Division Permanent Number Registration

Have you registered your permanent number for the 2007 / 2008 season? In order to re-register your permanent number (i.e. C215, R050, N021) please contact Terri Lowry at or (509) 292-8866. Forms are currently available on the WSH website at www.wshorsemen.com. If you are in need of a new number, please contact your Zone Games Chair. All riders must register (or re-register) their numbers prior to competing.

WSH Games Division Timer's and Judge's Clinic

This year the 2008 Timer's and Judge's Clinic will be administered like no other has ever been! The new system removes the annual cost of renting a facility in Ellensburg from the Games Division's budget (and the long drive). The 2008 rulebook will be published on the WSH website by the end of the month for members to use as a study guide and resource. As of March 1, the "online clinic" will be open for business. Here's what to do.

1. Join WSH.
2. Request a test by e-mailing with your WSH number and a scanned copy of your current judges or timers card (if you are currently a judge or timer).
3. After verifying your WSH membership status with the WSH Office, one of the Rules Committee Members will send your test via e-mail. There will be four different tests administered depending upon your current status as an official.
1. Student Timer (for those just beginning the process of becoming an official). This test must be passed with a score of 100% to obtain a Student Timer's Card.
2. Timer (for those 16 and over that currently have a First Timer's Card). This is a modified test that highlights rule changes that you will need to be aware of as well as focuses on areas of concern (i.e. arena sheet completion).
3. Student Judge (for those 16 and over that currently have a First Timer's Card and desire to become a judge). This test must be passed with a score of 100% to obtain a Student Judge's Card.
4. Judge (for those 16 and over that currently have a Judge's Card). This is a modified test that highlights rule changes that you will need to be aware of as well as focuses on areas of concern (i.e. course measurements).
4. Open completing the test, you mail e-mail the test back to the Rules Committee or send it in. The test will be corrected and if a score of 100% is reached, an official's card will be sent with further instruction for those needing to complete student work.

2008 WSH Games Division Show Approval Process

Show approvals are coming in as we speak! Please be sure to send your show approval forms with payment to the WSHGD Secretary, Jessie McLaughlin - this is a change from last year. The cost of approving a show remains at $10.00 per day. New approval forms are available on the WSH website or you may contact Jessie McLaughlin at to obtain one. Don't forget that the forms must be received, along with payment, at least 30 days prior to the event. Forms should be mailed to WSHGD Show Approvals, c/o Jessie McLaughlin, 7210 E Fairview Ave, Spokane Valley WA 99212-1526. You will receive confirmation via mail / e-mail once your date has been approved.

The following shows have been approved for 2008.

• April 5-6: Valley Renegades (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• April 19-20: North Country Riders 1 (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• May 3-4: Valley Renegades (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• May 10-11: North Country Riders 1 (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• June 7-8: Valley Renegades (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• June 14-15: North Country Riders 1 (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• July 12-13: Valley Renegades (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• July 19-20: North Country Riders 2 (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• September 6-7: Valley Renegades (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• September 20-21: North Country Riders 2 (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)
• October 11-12: North Country Riders 1 (Start Times 10:00 a.m. both days)

North Country Riders 1

Show Chair Melissa Stockman at or (509) 276-9862
Arena - Kleanne Farms (4771 Swenson Rd - Deer Park WA) / Reschedule if Rain
Event Order - KH,TM3B,F,TF,B,P,TP,F8,TB,TMS,CS,RR,KR,CH,RL

Information: Times Only, A B C D Bk LL at $1.75 per ride, 80% Jackpot (all events) at $5.00 per person per ride. Arena Fee is $3.00 per rider. Stalls are unavailable but tie-outs are allowed. Camping is limited. Definitely no hook-ups.

North Country Riders 2

Show Chair Melissa Stockman at or (509) 276-9862
Arena - Still TBD / Reschedule if Rain
Event Order - KH,TM3B,F,TF,B,P,TP,F8,TB,TMS,CS,RR,KR,CH,RL

Information: Times Only, A B C D Bk LL at $1.75 per ride, 80% Jackpot (all events) at $5.00 per person per ride. Arena Fee is $3.00 per rider. Stalls are unavailable but tie-outs are allowed. Camping is limited. Definitely no hook-ups.

Valley Renegades

Show Chair Terri Hutton at or (509) 892-6424
Arena - Deardorff's (5018 N Havana St - Spokane WA) / Reschedule if Rain
Event Order - F8,B,TB,P,TP,TM3B,F,TF,TMS,CS,KH,KR,RR,CH,RL

Information: Times Only, A B C D Bk LL at $1.75 per ride, 80% Jackpot (all events) at $5.00 per person per ride. Arena Fee is $3.00 per rider. Stalls are unavailable but tie-outs are allowed. Camping is still TBD. Definitely no hook-ups.

Washington State Championship Games Show

We are still looking for a theme for this year's show. If you have a creative idea, please submit it to . We will be working on a special prize for the person whose theme is selected as this year's winner! Also, if you would like to serve on the WSCS Committee, please contact Melissa Stockman at or by phone at (509) 276-9862.

Sponsorship forms are now available by contacting or for the Washington State Championship Show. Members are encouraged to print off five copies and take them EVERYWHERE with them handing them out to everyone and anyone that might want to sponsor the show and/or purchase an ad in the program! Before you deliver them to an "obvious" horse-related sponsor, please shoot a quick e-mail to Melissa Stockman with the company name and who you contacted so that we do not double-up on businesses. She will check to see if they've already been "hit". For "not-so-obvious" sponsors, please e-mail their company name and contact information to Melissa Stockman after delivering the information so that a running list of potential sponsors can be obtained. We are working on a reward for WSHGD Members that bring in a certain level / amount of sponsorships this year, more details to follow.

Website

The Washington State Horsemen website is located at www.wshorsemen.com. New information is now available on the website in the Games Division including an overview, officers, and frequently asked questions (FAQs). We are encouraging all of the WSHGD members to look over the site and give feedback to as to things you would like to see on the website (both overall and in the Games Division portion). A few of the FAQs are included in this issue for you.

How do I sign up to participate in the Games Division? There are just three easy steps to participating in the Games Division and having your times count for qualifying for the WSCS or for Zone, and Club awards...

1. Join WSH through a club or as a non-club member.
2. Obtain a permanent number through your Zone Games Chair (or their designated represented) or through the WSHGD Times Keeper and complete / return the registration form. Forms can be found on the Forms Page of the website.
3. Begin riding and have fun!

How much does it cost to ride at a WSH-Approved Games Show? Clubs across the State host shows for Games Division riders on their quest for WSCS qualification and Zone Awards. The Clubs are allowed to set the price per ride as well as arena fees. Rides usually are $2.00 per ride and arena fees can be found as low as $3.00 per day per rider. As you can see, the cost to ride is often less than the cost of the gas it took to get to the show but it is our desire to see that Western Games remain affordable for the entire family and our clubs work very hard to achieve this goal. We are fortunate as a Division that our officials (judges, timers, and stewards) usually volunteer their time thus keeping our expenses low.

How do you become an official? Each year the Rules Committee works to put on a clinic that highlights the rule changes from the previous year and helps train judges and timers. Those desiring to become an official begin by taking a "Timers Test" at a clinic. The questions found on the Timers Test are taken directly from the WSHGD Rulebook which all candidates are asked to become familiar with prior to testing. With a 100% score on the Timer's Test, a "Student Timer" card is issued to those that are 16 and over and a "Second Timer" card is issued to those that are 15 and under. Both of these cards allow the timer to serve as a Second Timer at a show. Student Timers are given two years to provide verification that they have timed each event at least two different times and upon doing so, are promoted to a First Timer allowing them to run the electronic clocks. Upon becoming a First Timer they may also petition the Rules Committee to take the Judge's Test and begin on the path to becoming a Certified Judge.

How do I host a show for the Games Division? First, we would like to thank those clubs / individuals that have hosted shows for the Games Division in the past. Through them, we are all able to ride and work towards our individual goals whether they be the WSCS or improving our times. For those interested in hosting new shows, we are able to pair you with someone that has put on shows for several years to serve as your "mentor" should you desire. To host a show...

1. Complete a show approval application found on the Forms page of the website and return to the WSHGD Secretary at least 10 days prior to the event with the fee of $10.00 per day. Once approved, the show will then be listed in the WSHGD electronic newsletter and in the Canter.
2. Obtain a show packet from the WSHGD Secretary. These will be mailed to Show Chairs outside of the Spokane Area and will include Arena Sheets, Record Breaking Sheets, Steward's Report Forms, and much more.
3. Have the show and have a great time making sure to use the WSH Approved Arena Sheets for recording all times. The show must also use certified judges, timers, and a steward.
4. Return the originals of the arena sheets to the WSHGD Times Keeper within 48 hours of completing the event (24 hours if hosting a show that falls on the last weekend of the season).
5. Return a ride count and 60 cents per ride to the WSHGD Treasurer within 48 hours of completing the event (24 hours if hosting a show that falls on the last weekend of the season).
6. Return the Steward's Report to the WSHGD Director within 48 hours of completing the event (24 hours if hosting a show that falls on the last weekend of the season).

WSH Games Division Newsletter

The WSHGD Newsletter is for its members. It's mission is to -

• List Show Dates
• Share "Good News" Information from WSHGD Members
• Share "Sad News" from or about WSHGD Members as we are all family
• Share Pertinent WSHGD Information (i.e. State Finals, Timer's / Judge's Clinic, etc.)
• Share Zone Highlights (i.e. Year End Winners)
• List Classified Ads for Individual Members (i.e. saddles for sale, etc.).

Colleen Price (our 2007 Super Senior A High Point Rider) has created her own webpage complete with her story and her journal at www.caringbridge.org. Colleen was diagnosed with breast cancer just before Convention last fall. Upon entering the site, type the word "colleenprice" in the box that says "visit a CaringBridge website". Her name must be typed in as one word. Please share your best wishes and love with Colleen. We all want to see her riding her fabulous horse MoJo again very soon!

If you would like send anything in for publishing in the Newsletter, please send it to on or before the 10th of each month. We will then include your information in the WSHGD Newsletter that will go out on or around the 15th of each month electronically. If at anytime you are receiving the WSHGD Newsletter and would like to be removed from its electronic mailing, please e-mail the address above. Edited information from the electronic newsletter will then be sent to the WSH Office for publication in The Canter. The Canter is available to all WSH members and includes information from all divisions. It is available to download from the WSH website free of charge or you may contact the WSH Office to have a copy mailed to you at a nominal fee. As a reminder, not everything included in the WSHGD Newsletter will be published in The Canter so if you have an e-mail address, don't forget to let us know.

Be sure to check out our Games Newsletter that is found on the WSH website under Divisions/Games/Forms and Downloads.

Now, out to ride - Melissa Stockman

Membership Committee

Submitted by Karen Lunan

2008 Washington State Horsemen "GOT HORSES?" Campaign

At the January meeting in Ellensburg, Linda Fonville came up with a great idea! She proposed a simple, catchy phrase that is designed to stir the curiosity of everyone and anyone that owns a horse! Linda proposed a bumper sticker (magnetic type that can be easily removed) that simply said GOT HORSES? I thought that was a great idea and contacted Linda immediately following the meeting.

Starting in March, Washington State Horsemen will begin a statewide "GOT HORSES?" advertising campaign. While Washington State Horsemen will do the best they can to launch this campaign.

YOUR EFFORTS ARE NEEDED AS WELL!

FEBRUARY LAUNCH! In February alone, the GOT HORSES? campaign was found at the Horse Expo in Vancouver WA, February 8th to the 10th. Plus, information has been being handed out at events throughout the State by WSH Royalty.

Starting in March a business card size ad, sponsored by Tack Room Too & Mt Rainier Appaloosa Club, will be in print in the Northwest Horse Source and I, personally, am including it in my own advertising for Poorman's Schooling Shows. The Poorman's ad is a quarter page in size and will be found in a magazine that covers Washington state and will run for three months.

BE CREATIVE! Every member, club and horse show needs to get involved in this campaign! We will ALL benefit from "spreading the word". If your club or Zone cannot afford to advertise by themselves, get together with another club in your area! Full page ads are very reasonable when you share the expense. A couple of affordable places to advertise are in the Horse Previews at $125 for a full page, and NW Rider at $205 for a full page.

Several clubs or shows could go together on advertising to make it affordable. The magazines are distributed for free all over Washington, Idaho and Oregon! This type of marketing will increase the size of your show, increase your membership and increase everyone's fun!

PARTNER UP! A lot of times tack and feed stores will "PARTNER UP" in advertising. But don't forget about the business's that WE ALL USE at one time or another. Plumbers, truck dealerships, tire shops, etc... all advertise and may welcome a different advertising avenue as well as the chance to save a buck by partnering up. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain!

RESOURCES At this time, Linda is working on quotes for magnetic bumper stickers. I have included some ideas and samples of ads that you might find helpful in this article.

CONTACT ME I am more than willing to help you with anything you might need. If you need help, email is the best way to contact me. My email address is . By April my schedule is full and time is limited. So don't wait too long if you want help with anything! TOGETHER WE CAN GROW!

Have a great show season! Karen Lunan, Membership Committee Chairperson

Youth Merit

Submitted by Jessie McLaughlin

The registrations forms are beginning to trickle in. Remember, all youth (whether new to the program or returning) must complete a registration form and mail it to their Youth Merit Chair (East - Jessie McLaughlin or West - Patti Seldal). Go to www.wshorsemen.com and click on "Committees" and then "Youth Merit" to download a registration form or to download one of the workbooks.

We are still in need of the Zone Presidents to appoint someone from each Zone that will be a point of contact for Youth Merit. We will happily provide the training (it's easy) for keeping track of points and suggestions for curriculum...we just need bodies! Thus far the following Zones have Youth Merit Advisors -

Canal
Pam Day at (360) 830-5200 /

Northeast
Jessie McLaughlin at (509) 926-3642 /

Puget Sound
Brittany Husser at (253) 847-3965 and Christine Oliver Hammond at and Jean King at

Zone One
Nea Welch at (509) 452-3719 /

Each issue of the Canter will feature some new questions that are not found in the workbooks. In order to receive credit, you must include the task number, question, and your answer on a sheet of paper and turn it into your Zone Youth Merit Advisor (or one of the State Co-Chairs if you do not have a Zone Advisor). Here are this month's questions...

• Task 18.08.01 (2 points) - There are eight competitive equestrian events recognized by the Federation Equestre Internationale (in English - the International Federation for Equestrian Sports). Name them.
• Task 18.08.02 (1 point) - How big (in diameter) is the circle in which a competitive vaulting horse circles?
• Task 18.08.03 (2 points) - Name the six compulsory exercises at a vaulting competition.
• Task 18.08.04 (1 point) - In a vaulting competition, most horses travel clockwise or counter clockwise in the arena?
• Task 18.08.05 (1 point) - What is the name of the Californian that is credited for bringing equestrian vaulting to the United States in 1956?
• Task 18.08.06 (1 point) - At which Olympics (location and year) was vaulting first demonstrated?

The 2008 U.S. Savings Bond Speech Topic is "Horses of Foreign Origin". Youth Merit Members at this point level will be allowed to select any breed to write their essay on after receiving prior approval from one of the Youth Merit State Co-Chairs. Last year's topic was "Horse Power Today" and we'll be including one of the essays in the next five issues of the Canter. One of the 2007 U.S. Savings Bonds essays was written by Shane Terry (Canal Zone) and was titled "Horse Soccer".

"Horse Soccer"
By Shane Terry

If you have never tried something like this, you really need to. We learned this game at our 4-H horse camp. To play a game of horse soccer takes a lot of different kind of preparations. The first really big problem to start with is getting your horse or pony next to this BIG, HUGE ball which is almost 6 foot diameter. At first all of the horses, and most of the riders, looked at this HUGE RED ball as if it was going to eat them alive. We had to gently introduce the horses to the ball by letting them sniff and move up near it without being afraid. It was try, try, try again in some cases. We weren't sure at all how our horses would react to this HUGE ball. This took a lot of patience, perseverance, and courage.

On the first day a few were able to get their horses near it. We did a lot of approaching the ball and backing off, getting closer with each try. By the end of the second day all of the horses were ok with the ball and were willing to start touching the ball with their noses, chests, and sides. We had to learn how to use our leg cues correctly to get their bodies where we wanted them. . Then the REAL FUN started: getting the horses to bump the ball around with the head, chest, and feet. Some of us were lucky and found out that our horses actually ended up liking this part of the game. By the 3rd day we were getting the horses moving quicker towards the ball, and sometimes if we were lucky, and our horse cooperated, the rider could actually get in a good kick. That was something else the horses had to get use to - the noise of a ball getting kicked. You know the sound a red playground ball makes when it gets kicked hard? Well, this HUGE ball makes a lot louder and stranger sound! I was really lucky that Mariah didn't mind the sound effects and she seemed to really like chasing the ball around. We were even able to get parts of the game recorded and it's fun to look back on how we started.

By the 4th day, the 10 of us had a horse soccer game: 5 members on each side, ball starts in the middle, and we all went after it. That's when the real fun started. Only problem we had was 1 Percheron from the other team, and my POA and my teammate's Arab pinned the ball against the rail, so we all had to back up to get the ball back into play. Back and forth we went trying to get this ball to the other end of the arena. Some of the horses and their riders were really getting into it and weren't afraid at all, some of the other horses or riders were still not that sure about the game and did what they could which is all that we were being asked to do. Through all of this we learned that with a lot of patience, cooperation, and perseverance, horses and riders can learn a new skill and have a blast doing it.

Dressage Division Report

Submitted by Mary Brady

The Lower Puget Sound Dressage Club (affiliate club of WSH) held their third annual Awards Banquet , Auction, and Dance on Feb. 2nd. This gala event was held at the LeGarmache Cafe and Catering in Port Orchard.

The Awards Banquet went off in high style, with a good turnout, delicious food, a hosted bar of beer and wine, and music and dancing by "Party Pros".

This year, the LeGarmache outdid themselves with Hors D'oevres, chicken Skewers, large prawns, seafood stuffed mushrooms, roasted marinated vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, Greek salad, and classic Ceaser salad.

For dessert, our 3rd annual dessert auction supplied us with cheesecakes and tall cakes. Table bids during the cake auction amounted to $1517.61. This money was donated to the Kitsap Humane Society to benefit the severely abused and neglected horses that were confiscated in Ollala.

There were silent and live auctions of donated items and services from local merchants, professionals, and nationally recognized manufacturers. Everywhere one looked, there were intriguing auction items - art, jewelry, horse items, botique baskets, clothing ets. The proceeds from the auctions are used to fund LPSDC A Shows, B Shows, and other club activities such as clinics.

Year end awards were received in style. Member of the Year Award was received by Robin Cummins. A special thank you to the many people who helped make this function a success, especially to Anne Montgomery and Cheryl Rife who donated countless hours.

Be sure to check out www.lpsdc.com for the 2007 Year End Award Winners.

Morgan Division Report

Submitted by Sondjia Edwards, Morgan Breed Director

Do you have a horse? More precisely - do you have a Morgan horse? If so, what have you been doing with that horse lately? ARE YOU HAVING FUN YET? Try this ... condition up a little, load up and go to the Washington State Horsemen shows - you know, the Zone shows.

You could start with some halter and a couple of English pleasure classes - either saddle seat or hunt seat. If you ride western there is probably a class just for you age group. And don't forget the all other breeds classes. Many of the breeds have their own pleasure classes to show in. The "other breeds" class is open to those who do not have their own class to show in. (Now, where are those Morgans?). Trail horse and sometimes Western Riding classes are also available. You may find your horse especially enjoys one of these classes. Our Morgan mare loves to do trail obstacles. The bottom line is - you won't know unless you try it on for size.

And it's ok if you are new! A nice turn out, good grooming and manners on your horse are, of course, necessities. Watch a few classes to see what they are looking for. It's different than at an all-Morgan show. We've found the western horses move more relaxed and easy-going - that's great for our Morgan horses not to feel pressured, they should enjoy the trip, too!

Generally, the classes are much shorter than at the all-Morgan shows with extended gaits not called for too often. All in all, most of the work involved is getting you and your horse in condition - that's where the "20-minute rule" comes in (more on that next issue).

By the way, you can show out of your horse-trailer so no stall fees, unless you wish to stall for the day. Classes are $8-10 each - more if it is a Dual show but then you collect twice the year-end award points! Did I mention Year-End Awards? WSH takes really good care of their exhibitors and your Zone probably has a nice year-end banquet as well.

Can you compete with the Quarter, Paint and Appaloosa folks? Well, yes, and think of what you can learn and the fun you could have getting out there without a lot of pressure and just showing off that gorgeous Morgan horse. How about it?

PS: The American Morgan Horse Association (AMHA) offers high-point Morgan plaques for individual open shows as well as Year-end high point awards for open shows!

Cascade Zone Report

Submitted by Jessica Spring

Cascade Zone has had an eventful beginning of the year with elections, meetings, and the awards banquet.

The Zone officers for 2008 are:

• President: Stacy Warrick
• Vice President: Melodee Spring
• Treasure: Cheryl McBride
• Secretary: Still open
• Points Keeper: Jerry Pelikan
• Zone Reporter: Jessica Spring

Everyone had a great time at the awards banquet on January 27. We would like to say thank you to Stacy Warrick and Melodee Spring for doing a great job of putting the dinner on. We would like to congratulate the following people on their awards:

• Halter Horse: First Class Asset handled by Jessica Spring
• English 14-17: Jessica Spring with First Class Asset
• English 18 and Over: Stacy Warrick with CTC Way Too Cool
• English Green Horse: First Class Asset ridden by Jessica Spring
• English Jr. Horse: CTC Way Too Cool ridden by Stacy Warrick
• Western 18 and Over: Cheryl McBride with Red Hot Inclination
• Western Novice Rider: Cheryl McBride with Red Hot Inclination
• Western Green Horse: Prominent Assets ridden by Stacy Warrick
• Western Jr. Horse: Red Hot Inclination ridden by Cheryl McBride
• Western Sr. Horse: Triples Princess ridden by Melodee Spring

More Cascade Zone news to follow soon- meeting dates, time and hopefully a new website.

Evergreen Zone Report

Submitted by Deb Lemeshko

Hi everyone! I want to welcome all potential members who live within the Evergreen Zone boundaries. Our meetings are held on the 1st Thursday of the month, March through July and September and October, at the Alfies Pizza in Snohomish, starting at 7pm. You can find more information about the Evergreen Zone at our website www.evergreenzone.org. If you show at Bits & Spurs, Hollywood Hills, and/or Windy Tides you are showing at EVZ approved shows and can qualify for the Zone Challenge Team and sign up for year end awards. We look forward to meeting and getting to know you! Hope to see you soon - Deb Lemeshko, President Evergreen Zone

Northeast Zone Report

Submitted by Jole Birdsell

If you are a fan of Spokane area Dressage, you no doubt noticed an omission in the NE Zone High Score Awards for 2007. Missing was Kindra Thurman, who, riding Cisco, won the Cocolalla Creek Sport Horse High Score Award for Junior 17 & Under, with a score of 66.166 in Intro Level, Junior. Now 16, Kindra began riding at six. Her ten years in the saddle, according to her mom, Michelle, ". . .for her is literally physical therapy. as she was born with some physical challenges with her legs and feet. It has taken her a lot of work and determination to get to where she is now, but San Francisco Gold aka "Cisco" has been a blessing to her as he has given her a ton of confidence in her riding."

Kindra's Northeast Zone show career started with another buckskin, "Goldie" (Spring Rock Gold) owned by Gena Loper. They competed in Showmanship and Trail in 2003 and 2004. The next year the family horses were sold so they could travel.

Now, through the generosity of Hannah Graham, owner of Cisco, Kindra is able to continue her riding and show in Post Falls Equitation Center's Dressage shows. They make a perfect pair, and we look forward to seeing more smiling photos as they continue their winning ways.

Not everyone who rides at Valley Mission Park knows a young man named Andrew Nilson, but we all owe him a standing ovation and a big Thank You. Andrew is 18 years old and a senior at Central Valley High School. When 4-H met Boy Scouts the results were amazing. It all started when Andrew's 4-H club sponsored the PeeWee Horse Show, which is for children eight years and under and special needs children. This has been a popular annual event for many years at Mission Park. Equally long-standing, but considerably less popular, is the hard arena that seems to sprout an astounding new crop of rocks every year. Andrew thought the little kids needed a softer landing, and he needed an Eagle Scout Service Project. First, he arranged for a couple tractors to loosen up the arena ground. Next, the call for volunteers to harvest the rock crop was answered by Scout Troop 464. Then he was able to get five dump-truck loads of sand donated and delivered. Donations came from Central Pre-Mix, Wittkopf Landscape Supplies and an anonymous donor. Budinger Associates Inc. did soil analysis. Spokane County 4-H partnered so that took care of the insurance. The entire project spanned 91 hours and utilized the service of 24 volunteers. A coat of fresh paint by Spokane County 4-H was completed prior to Andrew's project.

And does he ride? Well, according to his mom, Andrew used to compete in Games at the 4-H Shows, but he only rides occasionally now. His current ride is a Mustang, but it's a '75 that runs on wheels and the four-legged ones are not a priority any more.

By the time you read this Winnetou will be back in Idaho. A couple of weeks ago Marion O'Connor at Cocolalla Sport Horses sent this note:

"I wanted to let everybody know that by a twist of fate we were able to purchase our foundation stallion Winnetou back. He will ship from Oklahoma next week and reside at the Kruger Ranch for the breeding season. . . I can assure you he is still a stallion. He will be 14 this year and I still remember him as a yearling. I will get him going under saddle again and assess his training. He was confirmed Third Level when he (was) sold four years ago. In the long run I am looking for a permanent home for the old guy, he does not want to be retired yet and I have too many horses to ride as is."

Other news from Cocolalla is the recent import of a very nice 2 year old colt named Diamondhead (Diamond Hit x Hohenstein/Rubinstein). Marion says ". . . I need to campaign (him) and if that wasn't enough I just bought a 4 year old mare in Germany who needs to get here to get some showmiles. You guys get the point? Way too many horses here!

"So, I know Winnetou has a lot of friends here, he will stand the 2008 season here in Idaho for a reasonable fee and if someone would know the RIGHT home for him, please get in touch with me!" --Marion O'Connor

Linda Jones was notified by the Pinto Horse Association of America that My Fancy Dixon placed first in the Open Western Pleasure category for the 2007 OCAP program and earned Certificates of Merit for both Halter and Western Pleasure. From the Inland Northwest Paint Horse Club Fancy was High Point in both Halter and Western Pleasure in the APHA/PAC program. Rachel Stanfil will show Fancy in Walk Trot classes again this year. Meanwhile, Linda is looking forward to showing her Oreo's Painted Edition, a three-year-old Tobiano gelding who answers to "Arrow" at home. He is slated for Halter, Western Pleasure and Trail. Linda says the last space in her trailer for this season will be taken by Cisco, her Welsh-Paint cross pony. He will again be the Leadline mount for five-year-old Hailey Wood.

More Paint Horse news: Cheryl Coyner won the 2007 APHA/PAC High Point Longe Line in the INPHC with her gelding Lucky McLeo. This was Cheryl's first year of showing in NE Zone shows, but no doubt she will be back this year.

Coming Events in the Spokane Area

Mar 15 - SPOKANE COUNTY 4-H TACK SWAP - Fairgrounds. Consignments: Friday

Apr 11-13 - BACK COUNTRY & OUTDOOR SHOW - Lewiston (Id) Fairgrounds. ATV, bikes, hikers, sportsmen, trail riders, fishing, camping, art, etc. (Vendors wanted) Info: 509-243-5300

Apr 26 - NE ZONE PLAYDAY - Linda Fonville's Arena.

Apr 26 - SPOKANE PONY CLUB - Ice Breaker Schooling Show, - Flat & Over fences/Spokane Fairgrounds. Prize Lists at feed stores. Info: 509-238-4529

INLAND EMPIRE MUSTANG HORSE CLUB - Valley Mission Park, Spokane
Sat Jun 7 - Clinic / Sun Jun 8 - Show
Clinic and show are open to all Mustangs with BLM Brand on the neck. (Identifies as wild born) Spectators are welcome. Info: 244-9447.

Prairie Zone Report

Submitted by Georgina Fair

Greetings and hope you all are staying warm and dry. Things are still a bit shaky here in the south sound. Areas affected by the December storm and flood are still working at putting their lives back in order. PRZ had some who took a hit from all the wind and water. Connie Tennyson lost her hay storage in the wind then the hay with the rains. Tom and Diane Williams who are building a new home lost their house hold articles that were in storage in a relative's basement. Did get the show saddles out but lost some art work that is not replaceable. Keep all those in Lewis, Pacific, Grays Harbor in your prayers.

January 8th PRZ hosted a WSH and Zone sign up night. Thanks to Cheryl Hayward of The Trails for donating a nice warm room to use. We were hoping for a better turn out but did get a few new members so consider it a success.

New officers for 2008 have been elected. President is Georgina Fair . I can be reached at . Vice president is Tom Williams and secretary is Diane Williams. They can be reached at . Treasurer is Loris Gies. Loris can be reached at . Performance Director is Heidi Hughes at . Zone Director is Willie Hansen at . Heidi is in the process of developing the 2008 approved show list. If you have a show to request approval for please contact her.

PRZ is hosting our benefit show for 2008 on July 5th and 6th at The Trails. This will be a dual judged show for WSH. We are obtaining approvals from Appaloosa, Paint and Arab so far. Show secretary for this show is Lori Fair and Show Manager is Georgina Fair . The class list is in the final stages and as soon as we have it approved it will be posted on the WSH website.

In December PRZ held our year end awards banquet. Good dinner of roast beef, ham and all the fixings. Embroidered chairs were awarded to all PRZ exhibitors and gift certificates from Mary's TLC Tack store. Big thanks to Karen Lunan for embroidering the chairs and assembling the trophies and a big thanks to Mary Thompson of TLC for the gift certificates.

So on to 2008 and a new year. It is good to hear that the Games Division is alive and well and rebuilding. I believe they will be strong and healthy in 2008. I wish them luck in their process.

A reminder to all those who have not renewed their WSH memberships. Please consider joining your local club and supporting the Zone through a club. It is the local clubs and their officers and members who are the back bone of our organization.

See you all around at the shows and meetings. Take care and on to spring!!

Member of the American Horse Council

Legislative Coordinator: Eddie Armstrong
Phone: 360-352-5883
Cell: 360-561-6759

WSHC Office: Sharon Call
Phone: 360-769-8083
Fax: 360-769-8164
Email:

Legislation Will Support Horse Industry

Submitted by Eddie Armstrong - WSHC Legislative Coordinator

Well the Legislative Session is in progress and there are several pieces of legislation affecting the horse industry.

• HB (1147) pays compensation, up to $ 1500., to commercial producers of horses, cattle, sheep, when destroyed by cougars, bears or wolves. USDA Market Reports will be used to determine "Fair Market Value". The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife will be directed to pay compensation upon funding by the legislature.
• HB (2524) is an act relating to compensation to farmers and ranchers who suffer damages to haystack, fencing, crops, personal property, etc., done by elk and deer herds.
• HB (2767) - SB (6609) would limit building permit fee to $ 75 on specialty agricultural buildings of commercial operations. These are buildings to house equipment, inventory, farm machinery, hay, grain, poultry or other horticultural products. Human habitation and public use buildings would be prohibited from this exemption.
• SB (6315) would include Wolf Hybrids in the list of predatory animals which includes Wolves.
• HB (3073) - SB (6676) establishes a program for forage and mulches used in federal wilderness areas and on forest service lands. This bill will allow local weed boards to inspect and certify weed free crops when requested. This would provide Washington grown forage to be carried into wilderness areas.

These bills are all in need of the support of the entire horse industry. Please contact your local legislators and ask for their support of these important issues. We live in a changing world and we must continue to update the laws and rules we live by to keep us competitive with the world market.

Any questions please call me (360) 352-5883 Home, (360) 561-6759 Cell, Fax (360) 352-6149.

Numbers of Unwanted Horses Keep Climbing

UHC News Release 1-29-08

Over the last month, articles in prominent newspapers such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times, have reported on an apparent increase in the numbers of unwanted horses.

The headline in the Wall Street Journal read: "Leaner Pastures: As Horses Multiply, Neglect Cases Rise."

Regional newspapers and television stations have also reported that state agencies and horse rescue groups are seeing a growing number of horses that can no longer be cared for by owners. Some of the reports suggest that rescue groups are about to be overwhelmed and may have to start turning horses away.

The articles offer numerous factors for a problem that could get worse. They include over-breeding; the downturn in the economy; sharply rising costs of hay; the drought and winter storms that has affected many parts of the U. S.; the costs of euthanasia and carcass disposal; and the closing of the nation's three slaughter facilities, which removed the floor on the value of horses. Whatever the causes, and they probably include all of these factors, this is not an optimistic forecast for the industry or these horses," said Dr. Lenz, Chairman of the Unwanted Horse Coalition. "let's hope it doesn't get worse."

It may be too soon for the industry to declare this an emergency since the media reports involve only a few states and facilities. But clearly there are enough signs for the industry and horse owners to step up their efforts to educate themselves about potential solutions.

Some individuals and organizations have already stepped up with needed resources. But the costs of potentially caring for thousands of additional horses are substantial.

Rescue efforts are important but individual horse owners have a responsibility to do what they can for their horses.

For those who have lost everything to floods, storms or drought, it will be very difficult for them to provide care for themselves let alone their animals. Costs to care for these horses are substantial.

The Unwanted Horse Coalition has prepared various materials that will help horse owners consider alternatives for their horses. The materials suggest options an individual can take now and in the future so that the number of unwanted horses does not increase.

Copies can be obtained by calling 202-296-4031 or emailing: www.unwantedhorsecoalition.org

AHC news - Winter 2007 Volume 4, No. 3

Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) introduced the Preserving our Equine Heritage on Public Lands Act (S. 2283) on November 1st. This bill is similar to the "Right -to-Ride" bill that was introduced in the last Congress by Senator Crapo.

"Senator Crapo has retooled the bill he introduced in the last Congress and we appreciate his steadfastness in introducing the legislation again," said Jay Hickey, AHC President. "Equestrians are going to have to let Congress know that they are concerned about access to trails and public lands and that they support this bill if we hope to get it passed," stated Jay Hickey.

The bill directs the Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture to manage federal lands under their jurisdiction "in a manner that preserves and facilitates the continued use and access of pack and saddle stock animals" on lands on which "there is historical tradition" of use. The bill provides that such lands will remain open and accessible to the use of pack and saddle stock animals" where there is such a tradition. The bill applies to the management of the National Park System, BLM lands, National Wildlife Refuge System land and National Forest System land.

This bill does not limit the federal agencies ultimate authority to restrict such use, provided the agencies perform the review required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. The bill would also impose additional specific and designated procedures be followed by agencies before any land closures to include advanced notice of any reduction in use to allow public comment, and a public meeting with various user groups near area involved.

This bill recognized the importance of saddle and pack stock in the settling, exploration and recreation of our country by ensuring that the horse's historic and traditional use is recognized as our public lands are managed by our federal agencies.

Note from the WSH Secretary

Divisions Directors and Zone Treasurers- please remember that all financial reports for the 2007 year are past due. If you haven't either e-mailed or sent them to me please do so no later than March 15th.

Also, Club Secretaries, now is the time to be sending in your Club memberships forms. The 2008 Forms are now available to be downloaded off the WSH website. Just go to the home page click on Membership/Forms/2008 Club Membership Form.

Don't forget that the deadline for Canter articles is the 20th of each month so get those articles in early. They need to be sent via e-mail to .

2008 Washington State Horsemen Royalty Court Accepting Applications

WSH Royalty & Court are very valuable representative's for our Association. Not only do they serve as ambassador's for the promotion of Washington State Horsemen, but the money they bring in supports all Divisions of WSH by sponsoring different programs and offering scholarships.

Criteria to be eligible to run for WSH Royalty:

• You must be between the ages of 13 - 25 years old at the time of declaration.
• You must be an active, current member of WSH in good standings.
• This is open to all divisions of WSH including Western Games, Horse Show, Competitive Trail and Trails and Pleasure
• You must own or have use of a horse, your own equipment and transportation for you and the horse.
• You must be eager and willing to attend various division functions throughout the year; but is not limited to parades, trade show booths, award ceremonies, posing for pictures, handing out ribbons, answering questions and encouraging people to become new members.
• You must be single and never have been married and have no children.
• He/She is to act in an appropriate manner at all times.
• There has to be at least 3 candidates to hold tryouts

The candidates will be scored and judged on:

• Horsemanship
• Horse Knowledge Test
• Essay (topic to be determined by panel)
• Sponsorships - will receive awards for different levels of sponsorships.
• Sportsmanship
• Interview
• Personality and Appearance
• Academics or Job Review

For more information contact;

Michelle Smart
P.O. Box 45635 - Tacoma, WA 98445

Jennifer Luce
213 Curtis Hill Rd. - Chehalis, WA 98532

Grass Mountain Farm Horse Motel