December Newsletter PDF

To see video of the SFTR Parades please click on this link.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Another ‘trail riding’ year is drawing to a close. Once again many exciting events have taken place in the club. Topping the list is the completion of the Ozzie Alvarez Memorial Pavilion. This has been on our ‘to do’ list for several years and it can now be moved to the ‘done’ list. On April 14, the metal roof was put on. There are a few minor tasks we would like to do, but it is in usable condition now. We look forward to the dedication of the structure in June. Thanks to all who have made this possible. A special thanks goes to Augie for “taking the bull by the horns” to get this project completed. The pavilion will be enjoyed by many trail riders, and the memory of Ozzie will live on.
           
Three years ago, Manny Alvarez, came up with the idea of having an Easter sunrise service on horseback. What a great idea! It makes for an early morning, but it is worth it. Some spectacular sunrises have been observed as the riders watch from the shore of Biscayne Bay. Then we have the privilege of reading Scripture and remembering what this holiday represents, the resurrection of Jesus. Something that made this year’s service special was the three crosses on site. They were constructed and placed by Augie, Mandy and Mandy’s son. Thank you for your special effort. This year there were about fifteen riders. Next year that number should increase. Make plans now to attend this special time.
           
There are two special opportunities coming up. One is voting for your club officers, and the other is the year end banquet. Time and time again when local or national elections take place, the importance of each citizen voting is emphasized. One vote can make a difference and you should get out and vote. Voting for club officers is just as important. The people you vote into office are the ones that plan the events and activities for the year. Please make sure your voice is heard in the club by casting your votes. You can mail in your ballot, attend a local ride where votes are being accepted, or attend the general meeting on May 7. Whichever way you choose to vote is fine, but your vote is needed and is very important. Thank you for taking the small amount of time it takes to participate.
           
Speaking of the board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the current board for all the hard work they have given to you (the club) during their tenure of service. They have worked tirelessly in making your trail riding experiences a pleasure while incorporating learning opportunities. Thank you, Board, for the support you have given me as president. It is surprising what gets accomplished when we don’t care who gets the credit. It is called ‘teamwork’. Thanks everyone for the great teamwork.
           
Once again Miami-Dade has hosted the Agricultural and Cattle Show. This event draws people from many countries as well as other states. We have been given the honor of riding in the opening ceremonies repeatedly. Thanks to the Miami-Dade Horse Council and others for giving us this privilege. Thanks also for those who represent the club at this event.
           
It has been an honor to serve as your president this past year. It is my hope and prayer that the club will be the great club it is for many more years. Remember that a club is only as great as the members that support it. Hope to see you on the trail.
Happy Trails.
Wayne Hershberger

 

OZZIE ALVAREZ MEMORIAL T-SHIRTS

Make sure you get your Ozzie Alvarez T-shirt to help support the
Picayune Pavilion in Memory of Ozzie Alvarez for only a $20 donation.

Call Debbie Brunson 305-505-7103 for Ozzie T shirts and SFTR T shirts!

 

 

HURRICANE STALLS

Beginning May 1st, please give me a call if you’re interested in reserving a hurricane stall for the 2011 Hurricane Season.

I am waiting to confirm the cost to reserve a stall at Tropical Park so please call me before mailing any checks.

Thanks,
Debi Cat-Priest
305-274-7484

 

 

SOUTH FLORIDA TRAIL RIDERS 2012 ANNUAL BANQUET
May 19th, 2012
Saturday evening at Redland Golf & Country Club
24451 SW 177th Avenue - Homestead
6:00 PM - Cash Bar
7:00 PM - Dinner & Awards
8:30 PM Dancing to the tunes of
“DJ Leroy”
Buffet Dinner $30 (Prime Rib or Chicken Francese`)
Kids Meal - $15
**RAFFLE WILL START AT 9:00 PM**

RSVP - Deadline May 14th, 2012

Call Andrea (305) 258-7780.
Mail the form below with your check made out to:
SFTR - P.O. Box 924946 - Princeton, Fl. 33092

 

 

BANQUET RAFFLE ITEMS NEEDED

MEMBERS
As you know, our annual SFTR Banquet will be May 19th, 2012 and as always we are looking for raffle items.

If you have anything to donate, new of course, please contact Debbie Brunson at 305-505-7103 or Julie at 786-261-9020 and we will make arrangements to pick it up.

Some items we a looking for are: orchids, gift certificates for restaurants, Home Depot, Publix, etc and of course, anything horse related.

Thanks and see you at the 2012 Banquet!
Debbie Brunson

 

 

PHOTO CDs of CLUB RIDES

If you see Bonny George taking  photos at any of the rides, thank her!

She will make you a CD for $1 plus cost of mailing, unless you pick it up from her.

All of the money collected will go to the SFTR to cover costs of the CDs.

Please take advantage of that while we have her as a photographer!

We have almost all of the rides on a CD. Please call Bonny and ask her for the ride you are interested in.

If you have pictures of a ride send Bonny a CD so she can put all pictures of that ride together to sell.

Bonny 305-233-1897

 

 

 

SUNSHINE REPORT

Get well wishes go to Brian Reynolds who is at home and getting stronger everyday following a heart attack.  We also send get well wishes to founding member Mollie Zell as she recovers from vertebrae surgery (See pix).  Neil Chambless (as in Marion & Neil Aiello) parted ways from his new horse, Fred, as they galloped across a pasture.  Neil takes full responsibility for the parting but that doesn’t help his six (6!) broken ribs.

A Full and Speedy Recovery is Wished for All!!

Sunshine Committee

 

 

 

Continue Your Education...
Trimming a Horse's Hoof is a Matter of Mechanics

Recently, Carol Hakanson and I attended an ABC Hoof-print Trim clinic in Davie, given by Cheryl Henderson. Although Cheryl's niche is the dynamics of a “natural or Mustang” trim based on assessment, balance and correction; her focus for our Friday night instruction was a detailed investigation into the anatomy of the hoof, bone alignment, hoof injuries and diseases, and the resultant deformities and lameness issues. The informative lecture was punctuated by slide shows of Mustangs and a multitude of other shoeless horses, research data, and hands-on examination of real preserved equine lower leg/hoof parts from cadavers. The hinged hooves opened to view ligament and muscle attachments, bone positions, and healthy vs degraded wall/sole/frog. Rather than forwarding her primary agenda of a natural trim (as opposed to shoeing horses) Ms. Henderson's approach was rather to press for the understanding of the anatomical and mechanical aspects of a sound hoof. Utilizing this knowledge, any individual would be capable of trimming for maintenance or treating minor hoof ailments on a more informed basis. Those individuals attending the additional 3-4 days of instruction would be certified to trim. The last day of the clinic was to avail each participant a chance to dissect a hoof. That would have been a unique learning experience usually only seen by pre-vet students!
           
Throughout the evening we referenced our manuals, watched detailed slides of horrific hoof case studies, and the stages of trimming and care which brought the hooves reviewed back to soundness. The instruction was given on a layman's level, but no detail of research or methodology was abridged. After the presentation and ample time to question methods, results, nutrition and terrain issues, whether to boot or shoe (or not), everyone agreed the introduction night made them view the equine hoof with a sense of greater understanding. With knowledge comes increased confidence in caring for our horse's feet. By our more competent care of their feet, our equines live happier, healthier lives!
           
Each horse owner must decide to shoe, boot, or go shoeless. They must analyze their own physical abilities and willingness to learn and implement trimming techniques. For most, their farrier and vet are their professional hoof healthcare and maintenance providers. For those who desire a more hands-on approach this type of clinic is well worth the time for an educational installment. All equine owners would benefit by such a clinic to learn hoof anatomy, how improper care (or total lack thereof ) can cause severe internal hoof ailments, and become a more capable hoof care provider for their equine.
           
And so our life-long learning continues.
Bonny George, Jr.

 

 

 

Hoof Cracks and Lameness
by: Raul Bras, DVM, CJF • April 01 2012 • Article # 19828

Q: Can a horse go lame because of extreme hoof cracks and not being trimmed regularly? If so, is there anything you can do to reverse hoof cracks?

A: While most hoof cracks are superficial and do not cause much pain, horses can become lame due to deep hoof cracks that reach the sensitive inner structures of the foot. Routine regular hoof care (trimming and shoeing) is strongly recommended for every horse to prevent them from developing cracks and lameness.
           
Hoof cracks can be caused by long, untrimmed, and/or unbalanced feet creating hoof wall flares and separation of the hoof wall from the white line. Some other causes are environmental factors such as an environment that shifts from wet to dry. A wet environment allows moisture, mud, dirt, and debris to migrate through the hoof wall separations. When the hoof environment dries, the debris becomes trapped inside the hoof capsule, allowing anaerobic (not requiring oxygen) bacteria to take over.
           
Poor hoof wall quality due to nutritional deficiencies can also play a role in hoof cracks. Therefore, besides routine regular hoof care, a balanced diet and hoof ¬supplements can help your horse's hoof quality. In my experience, certain hoof dressings applied over the coronary band (I use Contender by Kinetics) will stimulate a healthy hoof growth.

 

 

Bringing the Trail to Special Needs Children
by Susan Boyd

A desperation call for volunteers was swiftly answered by SFTR members, who on March 9th gathered in Horse Country at Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center - operated by Dr. Erin Bauer. I joined Bonny, Sandy, Kiera and Pam Shockey (Horse Country resident) to work with several children in the Down Syndrome group. We were divided up into teams and manned several activity stations which allowed the children the opportunity to groom a horse, play word association games, and ride a horse. During the introductions we fitted each child with a helmet and checked for tied shoe laces, as they grabbed our hand and gleefully lead us to our stations. The children were so enthusiastic in all the differing activities.
           
Grooming a horse included playing vocabulary games as the kids were brushing and touching a horse. Chalkboard drawing added their artwork and related developmental conversation to the station activities. The happily groomed and thoroughly petted horse was then fed carrot treats via a bucket by the youngster, to the squeals of delight of the child and the laughter of the parents watching nearby. The group then moved on to a tour of a barn, investigating stalls, meeting other horses, and back out into the open for exercise crossing horse bridges and steps. A series of agility games followed involving color and number concepts, while direction and spacial awareness were conveyed using bean-bag tosses and cone-and-hoop toys.
           
The children were then safely assisted in mounting a horse, and they rode in a large sand arena. The job of the volunteers was to walk, or run, beside the horse to make sure the student stayed safe in the saddle. The kids rode like pros, telling the horse “walk on” and “whoa” when appropriate. They even got to trot ! At the end of the session everyone gathered for a final chalk board review, returned the helmets and shared a liberal dose of hugs from children with glowing faces. It was very rewarding to work with these special children - nothing warms your heart like the big smile on their face when they got to touch a horse or sit in the saddle and actually ride.
           
The group meets every Friday from 4:30pm to 5:30pm, and volunteers are welcome. You can contact Dr. Erin Bauer at Whispering Manes Therapeutic Riding Center at 305-968-2973.

 

 

 

CALLING ALL OF OUR LOCAL BARN OWNERS!!!

As we all know, hurricane season is here! Many of us have will have secured a place for our horses at Tropical Park. BUT, some of us do not want to have our horses that far, or have no way to get them there. I know many strong, safe barns have stalls sitting empty during a storm because their owners don't know how to help.
           
NOW is the time for anyone who has an extra stall (or more) available to step up to the plate and make it available to one less fortunate in case of an impending storm. We all need to work together as a community to keep our animals safe and protected.
           
So PLEASE, if you can offer assistance with a secure place. Contact Denise 305-798-8920 or dbfly612@bellsouth.net and I will compile a list for our members in need.
Denise Bourgoignie

 

 

 

Becoming a Horse Owner Has Turned Me Into a Magazine Junkie
           
Before I recently became a proud horse owner, I would occasionally purchase a horse magazine or two at the bookstore or feedstore and pick up the free stuff (like this newsletter, Horse and Pony etc.).  Now that I am lucky enough to own a horse, I can’t stop myself from subscribing to different horse magazines and requesting catalogs.
           
First off, I had to get the Appaloosa Journal which came as part of my membership in the ApHC.   I spend and evening or two with those looking at the articles and ads with absolutely gorgeous horses in them.  Even dear hubby grabs them and says—boy- isn’t this a pretty horse! Then as I started buying horsekeeping things and asking friends for recommendations about various products and brands I was told about the Horse Journal.  This is kind of like a consumer’s report on horse products which I find really useful.  So when I need to buy a pair of clippers or a new sheet or blanket or shipping boots, I can refer to the reviews there.  Those I keep.
           
Next I received in the mail promotions for subscribing to Equus and Horse and Rider.  One year for $10.00- how can I pass it up?  Next came Horse Illustrated.  I have found a design for the perfect (well, I’d make a few changes) barn in these as well as interesting riding and training articles.
           
Then come all the catalogs- Smith Brothers, Dover, Stateline Tack, HorseHealth, Jeffers, Schneiders, Rod’s, Valley Vet, SmartPak, Country Supply, just to name a few.  So I have to sit with some of these in the evening and drool and plan and wish I was winning the lottery this week.  I try to be good about recycling the catalogs- when a new one comes in, get rid of the old one.  But sometimes my dear husband has to remind me about “doing something” with the growing pile of paper in our living room!  But I love it.  I admit it, I am a true horse addict now.

 

 

 

Continue Your Education...HOW CAN I FIX THIS??
Goodman Horsemanship Clinic

On Mar. 24 under clear warm skies, local trainer Matt Goodman delivered an enlightening horsemanship clinic at his Goodman Performance Horses ranch. Greeting the approx. 56 spectators at the entrance, Wendy collected their ten-spot; and the participants delighted in sampling the baked goods from Kiera's well supplied table, with co-workers Silvio Gonzalez and Robert Lewis making sure the foods were well organized. Wayne had the grill set ready to go, while Carrie and Andrea set up the drinks and serving area. Debbie B. set up SFTR T-shirts and Bonny, the Ozzie Alvarez commemorative T-shirts, all of which were generously monitored and sold by Jack. And so the morning began.
           
The huge sand arena was lined outside with chairs from which we could sit to take notes, ask questions and have a clear up-close view of the topics Matt presented. Beginning with a large selection of bits and bridles, Matt critiqued the origin, use, training benefits and pressure zones each bit would deliver. Emphasis was made on appropriate application of pressure for a desired response, and which bitting sequence could be used to reduce problems encountered in the arena or on the trail. From snaffle to curb with a chain, ported bits used with a nose band, solid vs broken, shank or none, purchase, etc. Matt made it clear that the bit is only as harsh as the hands using it, and the situation involved. Frequent reminders were made to take the time periodically to retrain or refresh your horse, as small inconveniences over time develop into out-of-control situations. In kind hands the reins and bit are your communication with your trusted partner...but they are also your brakes.
           
Moving on to mounting, and not walking-off, but sitting quietly a spell or backing the horse and then sitting – good points to train your horse to not walk-off when mounting! Sensitize the horse to forward cues, keep the horse soft and responsive, and break up activities to maintain attention. Matt stressed hip and leg control to facilitate direction, while applying rein cues. Of course all training should be done in both L/R directions, and at all speeds W/T/C. After all, “no horse ever spooked at a walk!” We all had a lot to discuss while lunching, and our thanks to Natasha for tables dressed with beautiful flower arrangements, set beneath huge shade trees.
           
The clinic continued with the topic of trail safety. For horses who don't pay attention, a back-up each time keeps them thinking. Most important is a full stop and backup for every Whoa! Practicing the Whoa-stop-reverse at a trot and lope further imprints the braking response into the horses habitual performance. Once control and bending are achieved, good forward movement, feet-following-nose, and yielding to cues the process of de-spooking should follow. Face the threat and move ever closer by passing it until the horse can sniff the “monster” and conquer the fear of the unfamiliar. For rearing Matt suggested giving the reins and driving the horse forward, or pull the horse off-balance to one side and move forward. For a nervous horse, don't stop him (restraint may induce bucking), but rather tip the nose to one side and press the horse forward into a tight circle at a trot. Many other techniques were explained to change inappropriate equine behaviors, and Yes...Matt gives lessons!
           
We were treated to an added bonus in this clinic hosted by Matt and wife Natasha, by hearing the importance of maintaining the health of your horse's teeth by certified equine dentist Travis Collinsworth. Knowing the routine floating of a horses teeth enables the equine to graze, crush and eat forage and grains with maximum internal efficient use, Travis also used horse skulls to show how improperly or non-floated mouths set the entire head out of balance. This results in excessive poll muscle aggravation and interferes with bridle poll pressure cues. The same lack of proper mouth balance affects feed waste, and bit cues. A properly balanced mouth enables the equine to eat and process foods efficiently, makes possible softer rein cues, and can alleviate poll to spine neuromuscular problems.

As the clinic ended everyone agreed it was the best clinic anyone could remember. The presentations by both Matt and Travis were clear and concise, attuned to both show and trail riders, linked the health and training of the horse to the safety of the rider, went from basic to intermediate/adv. and there was ample time to diverge from demonstration scenarios to answer the many specific audience questions. For those who were unaware, Matt and Natasha, and Travis presented this clinic at the urgings of Julie G., and had agreed in advance to donate all the monies collected to the Ozzie Alvarez Memorial Pavilion in Picayune. Matt also donated four private lessons, and Travis a free equine float for the raffles held throughout the day. The following is a recap:

Winners of the Matt Goodman private lessons: Kathy Rogers, Sandy Fobb, Jen DeSolo, Amaris Hess.

Winner of the Travis Collinsworth equine float: Crystal Foss.

Clinic entry fees- donated by Matt & Natasha Goodman and Travis Collinsworth: $560
 Ozzie Alvarez commemorative T-shirt sales: $260
  Hotdog, chip, soda sales: $150
  Baked goods sales: $107
Total funds made this day for the Ozzie Alvarez Pavillion fund: $1077.00
Enjoyment and information learned...PRICELESS!
           
Our profound thanks to Matt and Natasha of Goodman Performance Horses, and their staff. Our appreciation also to Travis Collinsworth of Brooksville, to Julie for organizing the event and to all the SFTR members, friends, family and volunteers who made the day a phenomenal success!
And so our life-long learning continues.
Bonny George, Jr.

 

 

PARADE TEAM NEWS
           
The Key Biscayne 4th of July parade starts the parade year in beautiful Key Biscayne. This is one of my favorite parades.
           
If you can help get a sponsor for any of our parades that would be greatly appreciated. Their name gets on the banner and we will put their business card in the newsletter for a limited time.
           
We have scheduled a Parade Practice for June 16 before the July parade so you can try your horse out in a group with loud noises.
           
If you would like to join the SFTR Parade Team, please contact Andrea at (305) 216-2461. Start making your plans for the 2012-2013 parade year. We will post any upcoming parade team practices in the newsletter.

There are 5 parades a year. We look awesome and want to continue this. We hope you and your friends will join up. If you like to show off your horse this is the event to do it.
           
We have parade equipment in stock at this time, call Andrea if you need the equipment at 305-258-7780.

 

CLASSIFIED ADS

NEED HOMES: Born Free Pet Shelter is a NO-KILL, non-profit shelter that has been helping homeless dogs since 1980. 21 puppies desperately need homes. http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/FL299.html Alicia Aballi (305) 361-5507.

FOR SALE: Used Farm Equipment.  Tractor, Gas powered Picker, Farm truck waterer. Questions, call evening. (305) 248-3345, Day (305) 801-3423.

FOR SALE: Old rusty 2 horse, straight in, step up, bumper pull. It has repairs made to roof, some of the body and the bumper. $1000  Mike 305-331-7599.

FOR SALE: 2 Paso Finos, a 12 y/o gelding and a 8 y/o mare. Both have been ridden but not in the last 5 years. Call Mike 305-331-7599.

BOARDING: Full or Part Board. Excellent care, daily turn out on acreage, quality feed and hay, $400 month full, $150 part, Redland area, lots of trails, round pen, trailer parking, obstacle course, jumps and more.12X12 stalls, CBS barn.
Chosen Acres 305-522-1407.

FOR SALE: Ponderosa horse trailer, 2 horse $4,500. 786-306-7580.

FOR SALE OR LEASE: Paso Fino gelding. 14.2 hands, 3 years old, rides everywhere and does most anything. Needs a semi-experienced rider as he is still a baby. Andrea 305-216-2461.

FOR SALE: Paso Fino gelding, almost black. 11 y/o, 14 hands. Easy keeper, great canter. Trail rides excellent. Anyone can ride. $3,000 obo. Andrea 305-216-2461.

FOR SALE: Used GE Electric 2 cycle Clothes dryer. Heavy Duty large capacity. Would make a great barn dryer. $75.00 Andrea 305-216-2461.

FOR SALE: Redlands 3/2 CBS home on 2 ½ acres with pool and pole barn.  $299K, owner financing with 20% down or rent for $1,000 a month.  Susie Randolph @ Bishop Realty, 305-323-4038.

BOARDING: CBS (hurricane safe) barn on 15 acres in Redland. 12x12 matted stalls, 100x200 arena, turnout, trails near by, Triple Crown Feed and Quality Hay. Secure tackroom with alarm system. Call for more info - Letty 305-216-9793. 

FOR SALE: 40 Beautiful acres in Ft. White. 2 mi. Santa Fe River, 6 mi. to Icheetucknee Springs, growing horse community, Tifton 9 Bahia pastures, Electricity, Well, Septic, Single Wide, Zoned Ag., Paved road. 305-273-2121.

BOARDING: Full board, CBS barn, daily turnout - $400.00 per month. Please call Augie 305-582-1557.

FOR SALE: Persian Himalayan Kittens, home raised , Parents Kiki and Koko are my pets.  CFA REG. will have vet check and shots on April 26, then ready to go home with you. $400 cash. Alyce 786-218-7612.

FOR SALE: Misc. stuff that missed the yard sale. Hamilton Beach soft serve ice cream maker $10; Several rope hay bags $1 each; Easy Boot Edge size 0, one needs slight repair. $100. Mini chocolate fountain, NEW $5. 305-216-2461.

FOR SALE: Two pairs of Sunbeam Oster Variable Speed "ClipMaster" Large Animal Clippers -in excellent condition, half price at $ 150.00 each.  when new $270. Call:  305-559-7868.

FOR SALE: Cutest mini donkey jack ever - yearling  $ 500.  Two beautiful dwarf goat weanlings $ 100. Very low prices, pet homes only please. Sandy 305-807-4903 or email  fobbs@bellsouth.net

FOR SALE: Fox trotter/ qtr horse. Bay, great trail horse, 14 yrs old, needs exp rider. Been trail riding in East fork, TN and is sure and steady. Not good for roping but ok for team penning. Gaits plus a slow canter $3000. Marion 305-509-0765.

FOUND: White MALE BULLDOG. Beautiful & sweet, about 1 year old. 197 Ave & 248 St. Michele 786-402-0376.