2008 Newsletters
DECEMBER
Please, mark February 21, 2009 on your calendars for the SHTRA Annual Meeting. That's the date we can have the Victor TWP Hall at 6843 Alward Rd., Laingsburg. 2009 plans, volunteer acknowledgements, election of officers, and new trail proposal discussion will be after the 6:00 pm potluck dinner. Members and guests are welcome to attend and enjoy the evening. Volunteers call me 989-661-2541. Next Bd. meeting is Dec. 9, 2008 at 7:00pm at Pat Brown's.
SHTRA thanks the following Boot Scootin' Boogie Riders 4-H Club members who hosted an Aug.30 Scavenger Hunt. Under Mary Lytle's leadership, they are Fred Lytle, Mechelle Warth, Heidi & Molly Budge, Brandon Varner, Damian Lytle, Ashley & David Klockziem, and Linda McMichael. We appreciate their time and efforts that made this a fun event. Thanks for their donation towards the trail fund.
On October 11, SHTRA sponsored horse drawn wagon rides during Ichabod Cranes at Sleepy Hollow State Park. Nearly 500 folks got to enjoy meeting Ichabod Crane(Mike Wood) and Katrina(Agnes Wallace) on their horses. The Headless Horseman(Pat Brown) was waiting to spy on them from a hilltop. We could not have done this event without the generous donation of time and effort from the following teamsters. There were Kevin & Kerry Dutcher w/Grace and Clara, TJ & Amber Hunt w/ Lily and Booker, Gary & Sharon Fortin w/Ellie and Ruth, Al & Cheryl Goodrich w/ Babe and Belle, Dave & Judy Huhn w/ Duke and Diesel, West & Lorie Luther w/ Rock and Hanna, Russ & Julie Stickle w/ Chuck and George. Don Brown loaned his wagon. Thank goodness we had volunteers who answered the call--ticket takers, t-shirt sellers, traffic directors, candy gobbins, face painters, team headers, wagon loaders, picture takers, poop scoopers, grill chefs, etc.; Don Brown loaned his wagon. Thanks to Linda Kraai, Kathy Smith, Wayne Mears, Bryant Goodrick, Dave Richmond, Gale Moore, Ross Goodrich, Karen Craven, Mary Wrigley, Paul & Jato Davis, Don Brown, Floyd & Jackie Fisher, Mike & Elaine Eschruth, Myron & Dianne Karsten, Amanda Karsten, Donna Apostal, Zane Swagart, Sandy Webster, the Kimmits and Persell families. Afterwards, we had a huge potluck w/ brats and hotdogs. Thanks to all who brought wonderful food and Sue Chant for the morning's cinnamon rolls. We had 100 lbs of oats for each team. Those were donated by Harold Durling. Without Gary and Sharon Fortin's hours of help and coordination this event would have been impossible for me to pull off. Well done, SHTRA TEAM!
October 25th was cool, gray day but that didn't stop the Double M 4-H Club from hosting a Halloween trail ride. Taking a warm horse spooky trail riding trick-or-treating for candy is FUN. Riders in scary costumes enjoyed miles of trails over the Troll's Bridge, under the Giant's Hand, beyond the Menacing Mailbox, past the Headless Horseman, and on to Drag the Scarecrow. Riders were able to do a Head Transplant, Skull & Broom croquette, then the horses braved the Horse Eating Cave. After surviving the scary trails, hotdogs with cider and donuts awaited. Many thanks to the warm-hearted Double M members who designed and worked this event. They are Jan Mehney, Morgan Hathcox, Brooke Mehney, Natasha, Melissa, Amber (Queen of the Kitchen) and Hannah Schupp, Kevin & Kaitlyn Bashore, Keith & Audrey Canfield, Linda & Jarod Collier, Deb & Taylor Davis, Frank DeCicco, Miles & Bernadette (Scarecrow) Hayes, Kim and Lilly Makara, Monique Jorae, Bev London and Bella & Brigham Levene, Donna Rutter, Kelsey Patterson and Gary. If Leader Sandy Bashore, missed anyone, it was because of her sugar buzz. Thank you, Double M's!
Please continue to support our membership, as these numbers are looked at by DNR for project support. Membership forms can be cut out of this publication (Equine Times), on line at www.shtra.org, or email me at marken68@aol.com. Thanks to Mike Wood, SHTRA has new colorful patches for $5.00.
Marsha Putnam, President
NOVEMBER
Thanks to The Boot Scootin' Boogie Riders 4-H Club for hosting an August 30th Scavenger Hunt. Mary Lytle's club members and those riders who participated had a great time. SHTRA appreciates their donation and hard work that went into this event. Individual names will follow in later article.
SHTRA wishes to thank the Ranger 4-H Club, under Mary Malloy's leadership for hosting super event "The Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail".
The following by Robin Steckshulte:
The Rangers 4H Club held another successful judged trail ride on Saturday, September 27, at Sleepy Hollow State Park. The ride is named after Kris Kulhanek, a leader of the Rangers 4H Club who inspired the club to organize and put on a judged trail ride as a fundraiser, the first one being organized by Kris and held in the spring of 2005. Kris enjoyed traveling throughout the state to compete in various judged trail rides, always taking members from her 4H club with her. The trail ride is now a tribute to Kris, who tragically died in a car accident on September 27, 2006.
Approximately 20 horse and riders competed in the ride. Each horse/rider encountered 10 obstacles along one loop of trail at Sleepy Hollow. Each obstacle was designed to demonstrate a horse and rider’s ability to maneuver through various situations. Each obstacle was judged on the rider’s horsemanship, and the horse’s ability to maneuver through the obstacle without resistance or hesitation. Obstacles this year included a scarecrow pull, water obstacle, and polo, as well as knowing what direction you were going.
Congratulations to Michael Wood and Carl Neuman who tied for first place. A tie-breaker determined Mr. Wood as the 1st place winner. Both Mr. Wood and Mr. Newman donated their cash winnings back to the club. The Ranger 4H Club uses their profit each year to donate to one of several causes, including Sleepy Hollow Trailriders Association, the Kris M. Kulhanek Memorial Scholarship, and/or the Humane Society. Special thanks to Mr. Wood and Mr. Neuman for their generosity! In the younger age group, 1st place went to Morgan Currier, and 2nd place to Karley VanWormer. Great job, girls! After riding was completed, lunch was enjoyed by all. Be sure to watch the Equine Times for next year’s dates for the Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail Ride. To receive emails about these events, please email Robin Stechschulte at stechsch@msu.edu
Thank you, Robin.
October 11, SHTRA hosted horse drawn wagon rides for Ichabod Crane Days campers. It was almost too hot–can’t complain because it was not raining. Nearly 500 folks got to enjoy a scenic trip to meet Ichabod Crane (Mike Woods) and Katrina (Agnes Wallace) on their horses. The Headless Horseman (Pat Brown) was waiting to spy on them from a hilltop. SHTRA appreciated the teams who donated their time and effort. They were Kevin and Kerry Dutcher w/Grace and Clara, TJ and Amber Hunt w/Lily and Booker, Gary and Sharon Fortin w/Ellie and Ruth, Al and Cheryl Goodrich w/ Babe and Belle, Dave and Judy Huhn w/ Duke and Diesel, West and Lorie Luther w/ Rock and Hanna, Russ and Julie Stickle w/ Chuck and George. Don Brown loaned his wagon. Thank goodness we had volunteers who answered the call--ticket takers, t-shirts sellers, traffic directors, candy gobbins, face painters, team headers, wagon loaders, picture takers, poop scoopers, grill chefs, ect.. Thanks to Linda Kraai, Kathy Smith, Wayne Mears, Bryant Goodrick, Dave Richmond, Gale Moore, Ross Goodrich, Karen Craven, Mary Wrigley Paul and Jato Davis, Don Brown, Floyd and Jackie Fisher, Mike and Elane Eschruth, Myron and Dianne Karsten, Amanda Karsten, Donna Apostal, Zane Swagart, Sandy Webster, the Kimmits and Persell families. We had a huge potluck w/ brats and hotdogs. Thanks to all who brought wonderful food and Sue Chant for the morning’s cinnamon rolls. We had 100 lbs of oats for each team. Those were donated by Harold Durling. Don and Pat Brown donated lined leather gloves for each driver. Without Gary and Sharon Fortin’s hours of help and coordination this event would have been impossible for me to pull off. The DNR park staff also helped. Well done, SHTRA TEAM EFFORT!
Board business has been w/ event projects. We are working on the proposed loop on the west side of the lake. It’s been GPSed and the project is on paper to be revised and prioritized by the DNR. It would add about 4 more miles to our system. Please continue to support our membership, as user numbers are looked at as project support. Membership forms can be cut out of this publication, on line at shtra.org or at Tom’s Western Store. SHTRA has new colorful patches for $5.00 (Thanks to Mike Woods) and new long sleeved tees. Next Bd. meeting to be announced.
I must thank Sandra Batie for sending last month’s article edited from Scheck’s Camp. Since my horse was going well, I completed another MTRA Double Cross. Vice President Janet Phillips also achieved her first double trophy for this 23 day ride. We have lots of stories and wish Congratulations to all the others who finished. I visited with many horse folks during this time and realize how many read this far- reaching publication. With gas prices and three days of rain, it tested how “desperate horse riders” evolve. Happy Trails!
Marsha Putnam, President
AUGUST
August 30 is the date for the Boot Scootin' Boogie Riders 4H-Club's Saturday Scavenger Hunt. 11:00am-2:00pm with a hot dog roast at 3:00pm for participants. Your saddle bags and $5.00 donation are suggested. Prizes will be awarded. Contact Mary Lytle 517-202-7255.
The Rangers 4H Club is planning a Judged Trail Ride for Saturday, September 27, at Sleepy Hollow State Park. Riders can start at 10 a.m. (but can go out until 12 noon), and MUST be back by 2 p.m. to be eligible for prizes. Entry fee is $20 for 4H members, and $30 for all others. Age divisions are 13 and under, 14-25, 26-40, 41 and over, and green horse division, although age groups may be combined, if necessary. Profits are used to Sleepy Hollow and the Kris Marie Kulhanek Memorial Scholarship Fund. To register for the fall ride, please contact Mary Mallory at 517-651-6884. To receive a registration form via email, please contact Robin at stechsch@msu.edu.
The workbee of July 12 was not a wash out in spite of the rain that got all of us wet. Thanks go to Gale Moore, Dave Richmond, Don & Pat Brown and Floyd & Jackie Fisher for bringing their equipment –bobcat, tractors w/brushhogs, ATVs. Without these, the work done would have been impossible. The trails got trimmed and mowed back. The tall grasses and thorny branches are history. Low spots were firmed up w/gravel. Lonnie Buck I assisted Gale and Dave moving gravel. Pat, Jackie and Lisa trimmed. Back in the staging area Mike Woods and Gary Fortin worked on the Mounting Wall. Linda Kraai assisted and got lunch ready for the hungry crew. We all were exhausted but knew what we done made a big difference to the comfort and safety of trail users. We all earned free camping. The next workbee is pending acquisition of stones for the mounting wall. If anyone has stones, please call Gale 517-290-7624.
July 19 & 20 was the date for the Dennis Austin Memorial Night Ride. We call it the DAMN Ride because it’s a darn shame that Denny passed away. He was thought of as we gathered around the campfire and rode later. SHTRA members are thankful for the memorial donations that made our pavilion possible. We really enjoyed our cookout and delicious potluck dinner under the pavilion as it rained hard. Therese and Dave Kline had fun games planned for us and we appreciated their work as we rode their mind teaser Safari. Thanks to Mike Woods, Gale Moore Dave and Therese and Linda for helping me cook brats, dogs and breakfast for the hungry campers. Workbee participants camped for free. Poker Runs both days were fun and the winners- Sue Chant and Don Brown donated their winnings back to SHTRA. Thanks to both of you. I had horse prizes for the runner-ups. Lucky Don Brown won the 50/50 drawing and again he donated the money back. Nicola Reeves came Sunday afternoon sharing her horse massage wisdom. She worked with eight horses and their owners finding their ouchy spots and showing beneficial massage movements to do. Thanks Nicola! She can be contacted at 517-449-6026 to arrange an appointment for your equine. It was a great weekend. Thanks to all who came and enjoyed the trails.
To those interested in the progress of The CIS Rail to Trail, Sue Manes, an Ionia Equestrian was allowed to join their Bd. A new pamphlet will include listing future equestrian use- just how much and where are undetermined. We are waiting on the DNR agreement of name and an Intracounty Agreement before any further action occurs. Aug. Meetings are~ CIS Friends, Owosso Bike Shop Aug 13th 7:00pm and Tri-County Governing Bd. 3:30pm Aug 15 at the Clinton Co. Courthouse. If interested, contact me at marken68@aol.com or Mel Parker at meltrailrider@sbcglobal.net
Next SHTRA Bd. Meeting will be August 12, Staging area, 7:00pm. Agenda includes the new trail proposal plans and patches for your jackets should be here soon. If you want input/suggestions on this new trail- on the west side of the lake- please come.
Happy Trails~ Marsha Putnam
JULY
The next workbee will be 9:00 am-? on July 12. We'll work on the mounting wall, trail branch stubs, and gravel. Your chainsaws will make quick work of those stubs. If you have an ATV, bring it to get about. Lunch at 1:00 pm. This is the weekend before the DAMN Ride and those with 5 hrs of volunteer effort will get their overnight fee waved. July 8th is the next 7:00 pm Bd. meeting at the Park Pavilion. Agenda includes DAMN Plans, new proposed trail, and workbee items. Members welcome, please come it’s for you.
Dennis Austin Memorial Night Ride=DAMN Ride will be July 19 & 20th. Overnighters need to register w/$19.00 at the staging area. This is our camp overnight fun and games weekend with Poker Runs, 6:00 pm Sat. Potluck, Horsey Games and much more. Nicole Reeves will host a Better Horse Massage Clinic each day. Those participants must register as her space is limited. Please contact me 989-661-2541 for more information or attend the July 8th Bd. meeting. Check our web at shtra.org
Submitted by Robin Stechschulte
~The Kris Kulhanek Memorial Judged Trail Ride a Success~
The Rangers 4H Club held their spring Kris Kulhanek Memorial Trail Ride on May 18 at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, Michigan. The ride is named after Kris Kulhanek, a leader of the Rangers 4H Club who inspired the club to organize and put on a judged trail ride as a fundraiser, the first one being organized by Kris and held in the spring of 2005. Kris enjoyed traveling throughout the state to compete in various judged trail rides, always taking members from her 4H club with her. The trail ride is now a tribute to Kris, who tragically died in a car accident on September 27, 2006.
The threat of rainy weather scared off participants this year, but the ones that showed up had a great ride and remained dry! A judged trail ride is based on how well a horse rider can maneuver through “obstacles” along the trail, receiving up to 10 points for each one. Obstacles this year included basics like crossing a bridge, as well as more challenging obstacles like the floating forest (helium balloons along the trail), and broom polo. Bonus points were given this year if you could identify the breeds of four dogs that members brought. The 4H members always enjoy coming up with new, creative obstacles. The entry fee also included donuts before the ride, and a full lunch after, including hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and cookies.
Cash prizes were given to the 1st and 2nd place winners in each division as follows. Green horse division: Lauren Merkle (97 points); 25 and under division: 1st Morgan Currier (101 points); 2nd Rachel Carpenter (85); 3rd Meagan Carpenter (78); 41-over age group: 1st Carl Neumann (99 points), 2nd Annette Neumann (98), tie for 3rd place between Janice Parnish and Ken Hartwig at 76 points each Morgan Currier also won the overall high point prize.
The Rangers 4H Club is planning a fall trail ride for Saturday, September 27, at Sleepy Hollow State Park. Riders can start at 10 a.m. (but must go out by 12 noon), and MUST be back by 2 p.m. to be eligible for prizes. Entry fee is $20 for 4H members, and $30 for all others. Age divisions are 13 and under, 14-25, 26-40, 41 and over, and green horse division. Age groups may be combined, if necessary. The Rangers 4H Club is also a member of the Sleepy Hollow Trailriders Association. Profits from the trail ride are often used to contribute to Sleepy Hollow and/or to the Kris Marie Kulhanek Memorial Scholarship Fund. To register for the fall ride, please contact Mary Mallory at 517-651-6884. To receive a registration form via email, please contact Robin at stechsch@msu.edu
To those interested in the progress of the CIS Rail to Trail, Sue Mains, an Ionia Equestrian was allowed to join their Bd. A new pamphlet will include listing future equestrian use- just how much and when are undetermined. July Meetings are~ CIS Friends July 9 at Pewamo Village Hall 7:00pm and the overseeing Tri-County Governing Bd. 3:30pm July 18 at the Clinton Co. Courthouse. If interested, contact me at marken68@aol.com or Mel Parker at meltrailrider@sbcglobal.net
My 4,300 mile-25 day-9state trip to the ApHC Apache Land ride and then Monument Valley was an awesome, once in a lifetime PRICELESS ADVENTURE! Thanks to those who made it possible.
Marsha Putnam, President
MAY
On Saturday, May 3, the Sleepy Hollow Trail Riders Association, in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, held their second annual Rural Heritage Plow Day. The weather was cool and comfortable for the nineteen teams of Belgians, Percherons and mules. The teams worked two and three abreast plowing 8.5 acres and providing wagon rides to spectators. Volunteers make this event possible. Volunteering provides a unique opportunity for trail riding centric association members to interact with the heavy horse crowd and share a deep respect for all that horses contribute to our quality of life.
Association members Gale Moore, Theresa Kline and Bob Walker attended a trail design training program in Wisconsin. The knowledge they bring back will be used to redesign trouble spots on our existing trails. The training will also be used on our pending trail expansion, including use of the latest technology for trail water crossings. Trails designed to work with the terrain promise more time riding and less time upholding the association’s trail maintenance pledge.
April and early May saw three work bees. Continued support from a core group of volunteers have the trails in shape for the riding season. While the turnout has been adequate, plans to expand the trail system at Sleepy Hollow State Park will require more association members to volunteer their time and equipment.
If you are a work bee contributor, mark your calendar for July 19th and 20th. That’s when we hold the Dennis Austin Memorial Night Ride. This memorial ride is a rare opportunity to camp with your horse at the park. Work bee contributors will have their camping fee waived.
Michael Wood, Secretary
Standing in for President Marsha Putman, who is off on a riding adventure!
Please Note: The Kris Kulhanek Memorial Judged Trail Ride will be held on Sunday May 18-not on Saturday May 17. This is a very special event and a great opportunity to test your horse and horsemanship skills. The Rangers 4-H Club puts on a topnotch event and challenging ride. Don’t miss this 4 age divisions ride. Ride between 10 and 2 pm. Lunch will be furnished for participants. $20.00 for 4-H Clubers and $30.00 for non-members. Prizes will be awarded. Profits go for the KKM Scholarship Fund. Contact Mary at 517-651-6884 for more information.
May 3rd will be our Plow Day at the park near the entrance headquarters. Draft horse teams from all over the state will be plowing wildlife food plots. Wagon Rides will take folks from the parking lots to the plow sites. Grove Church will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast from 7:30am-9:00am at the corner of Price and Shepardsville Rd. It is right next to the park. Pastor Bob Prange will be blessing the teams before the 9:30 am event. Steve’s Catering will serve pulled pork sandwiches for lunch. Vera Thornton of Fenton has generously donated an original pastel drawing of a team of Belgiums. That will be raffled off. SHTRa t-shirts and other information will be available that day. Maybe you saw event host, Gary Fortin on the Farm and Garden TV Show April 19 talking about this event. We appreciate his hard work organizing an event with so many things going on. SHTRA members please volunteer if you can. Call 989-834-1813. You don’t want to miss any of this.
Our trail scouting on March 30 resulted in GPS marking of a potential 5 mile loop on the west side of the lake. It was a cool, rainy day and I thank those who came and pushed their way through the brush. Theresa Kline is working on a rough draft for crossing the Little Maple River. This proposal will be worked on through out the summer. There are many options that are possible.
Our work bee on April 5th was well attended and winter debris was removed from the trail. There were many downed trees that needed chainsaw work. Gale Moore and Mike Woods installed the rail fence by the mounting wall. Additional landscaping will be done. Thanks to Dave Richmond, Peg and Roger Borgman, Val Lau, Donna Apostol and Zane our staging area and trails really look nice. Lonnie Buck and Jackie Fisher helped out too. Thanks to Mike Woods who made chili for the hungry crew.
On April 12, we were going to work on the trail but heavy rains made that impossible. So Don and Pat Brown, Gale Moore, Dave Richmond, Myron and Diane Karsten knotched tapped pickett poles and drained standing water. Winter leaves were removed from parking lot plugged culverts. I had hot soup and grilled sandwiches for the hungry crew. Thanks for Linda Kraai for the yummy cupcakes and Gale Moore for the brownies. Hum, somehow we never go hungry.
The next work bee will be May 10th. Our gravel order will be there by then and that needs to be worked out to low areas. If you have a gator, bobcat, Kubota- this will be the work bee to bring them. Please call Gale Moore, our Trail Maintenance Man, who will be in charge for more info. Contact him at 517-290-7624. I need a lunch person that day, as I will be gone. So here’s your chance to bring some chili, do some hot dogs, make some soup, cupcakes, ect…..Contact Gary Fortin if you can help at 989-834-1813. Remember work bee hours count for FREE camping at the July DAMN Ride
On April 13th, the Rotten Egg Hunt was held despite chilly Spring weather. Enthusiasm ran high as children diligently searched high and low for the highly desired Emu eggs, the camouflaged “rotten eggs” and candy filled plastic eggs that were in the grass and bushes around the horseman’s staging area. A good time was had by all! The Emu eggs were generously donated by Beth Repas. Thanks to the Brown family for sponsoring this fun event again and to all those who participated.
Next SHTRA Bd. meeting will be 7:00 pm. May 13t at the staging area-new trail options, patches and events are on the agenda. A grant for MHC funds was written by Mike Woods and Gale Moore.
CIS Rail Trail meetings are May 14-7:00 pm at the Bike Shop in Owosso and May 16 TriCo Governing Bd. at 3:30pm at the Clinton Co. Courthouse. These are important investments for your riding future. Thanks to those who have inquired and are supporting our CIS efforts. I can be contacted at 989-661-2541 or marken68@aol.com. See our web page shtra.org for more info.
Back to SHTRA events, we are starting to scout for a new loop on the west side of the lake. March 30 Sunday at noon- Meet at the staging area for maps and studying to plan a few more miles to add to what we got. Other dates will be posted on web or Janet’s email. Bring you hiking boots, flags markers, and your own water bottles. Call me at 989-661-2541 if you can come and help walk to flag a route.
Marsha Putnam
APRIL
Our Rotten Easter Egg Hunt is being planned by the Pat Brown Family. This is a fun event for members and guests that are young at heart. The kids will be searching for what the Easter Bunny left behind at 2:00 pm April 13. A Trail ride will take place afterwards. If you have goodies for the bunny eggs, contact Mrs. Pat at 517-651-5984.
Workbees for Winter Clean Up, finishing the Mounting wall, will be April 5 and April 12 at 9:00am -? I'll fix lunch and would appreciate some extra helping hands-really your legs. Bring shovels, saws, ATV, just call if you have questions. Gary 989-834-1813, Gale517-290-7624, Mike 517-648-9139 or me 989-661-2541. This is how we get the trails nice and our volunteer hours for camping!!!!!
Plow Day is May 3rd and it is going to be a unique event to watch teams plow making wildlife food plots. Wagon rides will be given from the parking lots to the plow site. Steve’s Pulled Pork sandwiches will be for sale. A Vera Thornton draft horse painting will be raffled off and several of her books will be for sale.. Thank you Vera. We need SHTRA volunteers for headers, 50/50 drawing, etc..please contact Gary at 989-834-1813.
For information and registration for our Judged Trail Ride on May 17 call 517-651-6884 and other events check out our web at www. shtra.com. Next SHTRA Board meeting is April 15 at Penny Ballard’s home 11103 Upton Rd. New Trail planning and other events are on the agenda.
It was great to see and visit with so many trail riders during the MHC MSU Horse Expo March 7-9th. Many memberships were renewed and SHTRA thanks those who did so. We wish to thank those who helped at the booth – Sue Chant, Sue Thurow, Jean and Ray Dodge, Pat and Jen Brown, Nicole Reeves, Lonnie Buck, Penny Ballard, Jim Tucker, Starr Hart, Melinda Eberhart, Brenda Franklin, Linda Kraai, Chris Salters, and Char Aaron. Special thanks go to Gary Fortin who lugged the totes and drove me to Expo, Gale Moore who helped us set up and Mike Woods who developed the 2008 DVD presentations of Plow Days and other events. With out these three guys, Expo could not have happened for SHTRA and me. Yup, I’m still hopping about with a reconstructed knee and it’s been a long winter on crutches. I’ve heard that fellow SHTRA and MTRA members Theresa and Dave Kline did a great job on the Trail Rider Presentation on Saturday. It is so important for all trail users to unite and get the respect they deserve. The economic impact generated from tack, horseshoes, vet services, hay, bedding, truck and trailer needs is underestimated. Oh, did I forget the actual cost of the horse, barn, and land. Our future trails must be planned for and protected. Thanks to Theresa and Dave, MHC and whoever it takes to reopen closed trails and camps. It’s a start and United we’ll ride trails and Divide we’ll---well, we’ll just be riding the road around the block.
The following is an example of what is happening. March 12, 2008 a dozen or so of us trail riders-SHTRA, MTRA, IHA, BHA, FCHA WHA- went to a CIS meeting in St. Johns. Information on this meeting was at Expo. This was the annual meeting for the Friends of the Clinton–Ionia-Shiawassee Trail. It is a proposed rail to trail project that is 41miles from Owosso to Ionia. The land title, Fred Meijer Grant Funding, 501c3 status, and The Tri-County Governing Board have been established. This is to be a non-motorized trail with the master plans to be developed in 2008-2009. However, the Friends group was very anti horse and strongly opposed to having any horse trail developed. The Tri-County Governing Board will be meeting March28, April 18, etc. to listen to solutions. I can’t fathom loosing this potential trail of the future by not doing anything to save it. This horse trail will not happen unless we-and I mean anyone who would come to ride on it- starts coming to these planning meetings. I am starting a list of interested equestrian users, clubs, posses, 4-Hers, - please email me with your supportive comments. Don’t suppose someone else will do it for you. I will try to keep you posted with what is happening. My phone #is 989-661-2541 and email is marken68@aol.com If there is a strong beginning then maybe we can start a new group of equine users and preserve a part of the trail what is rightfully ours. Poop happens-and that is exactly what will happen if we don’t act. ACT NOW!
Marsha Putnam
MARCH
Feb. 2nd was the date for your annual meeting at the Victor TWP Hall. We had a large turnout for our dinner and auction. Park Manager, Tim Machowicz was present and spoke to the group and took questions. He also sold park stickers.
Penny Ballard, Lonnie Buck, and Gary Fortin were elected to the board. I reviewed and acknowledged 2007 volunteers and event planners. Ann Reed was presented with her ten year membership certificate. We also discussed events for 2008. We passed around the sign up sheet for scouting for additional trail on the west side. Please contact me ~ 989-661-2541 ~ if you would like to become involved in that process. Pat Brown took many membership renewals and presented the annual Treasures Report. Don Brown was the auctioneer assisted by Floyd Fisher and Jen Brown. The Annual Park Sticker was high bided by Theresa Kline and then she also won the top door prize-a 2008 Park Sticker. Ray Dodge and David Kline won the other door prizes-reflective horse picket collars donated by Tractor Supply of St. Johns. Other businesses that donated items were Tom's Western Store, The Wire Horse, Carland Elevator, ZCI of Chesaning, Lone Star Western Store of Saginaw, and Ovid Farmers Elevator. We appreciate their support. Mike and Elaine Eschtruth donated a saddle and many numerous items as they are moving. Their generosity is appreciated. Please go to our web site –shtra.com for pictures of the meeting and 2008 events.
Other Ten year membership certificates can be picked up at Expo-Tom's Western Store, Judy Marteniuk, Sharon Helman, Sandra and Robert Batie, Larry and Renee Prochazka, and Karen and Joe Shovels. Thanks to Secertary Mike Woods who prepared these certificates. He is also working on a video presentation for the Expo Booth. Val Lau signed up folks for that.
Our Board Feb. meetings were cancelled as the majority of us had the flu and I still can't get around after knee surgery. Hopefully, over the next few weeks we can work out scouting for the proposed trail, plans for spring work bees-April 5, April 12 and May 10, -Plow Days May 3, and the Rotten Egg Hunt April 13.We wish to thanks MHC again for the grant monies what were used to build a Mounting Wall. We need to finish landscaping around it. It is wonderful for those who need a little lift to get on your horse. Mike Woods and Gale Moore were the planners and builders of this structure.
March 14,2008 the Friends of the CIS Trail will hold their annual meeting at 7:00 pm at the Clinton County Regional Agency, 1013 S US 27 in St Johns. This is very important that horse people attend as this proposed Trail is now reaching the planning stages. The Land and Funding have been secured after many years of work. Thanks to the involvement of Fred Meijers Foundation this FORTY ONE mile Rails to Trail Project will be planned over the next year. If equine interest is not shown, then an equine trail will not be included. This rail trail runs from west of Owosso to east of Ionia. Volunteers are needed to help with Communications, Resource Development, Board Governance and Maintenance. I strongly urge those interested in riding this trail to get involved now.
Marsha Putnam
FEBRUARY
Don't forget the February 2nd Annual Meeting and Auction. This special event is one of our largest fundraisers that starts with a 6:00 pm potluck dinners. Please bring a dish to pass and your table service. This year the DNR will be selling park stickers that evening and signing up volunteers for the Expo. We will be honoring ten year members~ Sandra and Robert Batie, Sharon Helman, Judy Marteniuk and Kent Refsal, Larry and Renee Prochazka, Ann Reed and Karen and Joe Shovels. Donated Horsey items are being collected to be auctioned off. Events for 2008 will be discussed. Hope to see you at the Victor TWP Hall 6843 Alward Rd.
Events that are being planned for 2008 are Expo March 7-9 at MSU. Sunday April 13th is being planned for the Rotten Egg Hunt. Pat Brown and family will have surprises for the “things” the Easter Bunny leaves. Workbee dates of April 12 and May 10 are planned. May 3rd will be Old Fashioned Plow Days will Draft Horse teams working up areas for wildlife plantings. Gary Fortin can be contacted for more information at 989-834-1813. The Rangers 4-H Club is planning TWO Judged Trail Rides-May17 and September 21. These events are a wonderful opportunity to test your trail savvy and support their memorial scholarship program. Mary Mallory at 517-651-6884 will have more information. The Damn Ride will be July 19-20. We have more on that unique event later. Ichabod Crane Day will be Oct. 11th. We are looking for other volunteers to plan a Spooky Ride, Scavenger Hunt and Poker Runs.
Don't forget to send in your memberships-cut out the form in Equine Times or get one from our web site at shtra.org
Marsha Putnam
JANUARY
I hope your Holidays were wonderful and you are making plans for 2008 trail rides. I'm looking forward to warmer days to ride and meet trail buddies. Please don't forget to renew your trail riding memberships where ever you ride. With the budget cuts, the DNR is depending on their park’s support groups more than ever. Trail riding opportunities should not be taken for granted- we need to show how strong our commitments are to keep equestrian trails open. You are not “Just a Trail Rider”—support your favorite groups. At the last Board meeting we decided not to raise our memberships. For the eleventh year they are -$15.00 for individual and $20.00 for families. Send in your membership come ride with us.
There are several upcoming events- January 5 is a Holiday Party with the Sleepy Hollow Park Staff and the Friends group. This hosted by the DNR and will be held at the park garage. You are asked to bring a dish to pass for the 1:00 pm potluck. Please RSVP by Jan. 2nd if you are planning on attending. Contact me at 989-661-2541 or email marken68@aol.com or the park office at 517-651-6217.
Mark your calendars for The Annual Meeting on February 2nd at the Victor TWP Hall 6843 E. Alward Rd. Hall. Set up will start by 4:00 pm. and we would appreciate help with the tables and chairs. Memberships will be taken, t-shirts will be available, the suggestion box out, Expo Sign up and donation items viewed. The potluck dinner will start at 6:00 pm, please bring your tables service and a dish to pass. Beverages are provided. A short business meeting will be held to elect board members, review annual reports and plans for 2008. If any person is interested in joining our Board, please call Val Lau at 517-3320-1655. She is working on 2008 Director's Slate. You can make a difference and help achieve our goals- more trails and camping at Sleepy. At 7:15 Don Brown will be the auctioneer for the donated items and services. Please don't forget your “trail rider's treasure” for the auction-a 2008 Park Sticker will be raffled off and one given as a door prize. This is a fun evening and one of our best fundraisers.
Other upcoming event dates have been determined: *MHC Day at the Races –TBA-Jan.27 or Feb 3rd ; *Expo Mar.7-9 MSU; *May 5- Plow Day; *July 19-20 DAMN Ride and Poker Runs; *Oct. 11-Ichabod Crane Day. Other events pending are work bees, Buddy Rides, a scavenger hunt, Judged trail rides, Spooky Haunted Ride and group rides to check other areas.
January 15, 2008 is the next 7:00 pm Board Meeting at Pat Brown’s on Alward Rd. Agenda items are auction plans, 008 events, Board candidates.
Check out our web Mark your calendar for Feb.2 –Auction Treasures! See you there!!!
Marsha Putnam
