2009 Newsletters
DECEMBER
Next SHTRA Board Meeting will be Dec. 8th at Pat Browns 6:30pm. Agenda: plans for 2010 events, newsletter revision, 2010 Board candidates, and the new loop potential. Be looking for your renewal membership by email and check our website shtra.org. Maybe this will save us the cost of many mailings. If you are reading this and thinking SHTRA has fun events and needs more trail mileage, please join us. Connie Frey, Membership Chair can be contacted at conniefrey@yahoo.com
The date of February 6, 2010 has been set for the Annual Meeting at the Victor TWP Hall, 6843 Alward Rd., Laingsburg. NOTE: Time Change – please help with hall set-up at Noon. Potluck at 2:00 pm. Bring a dish to pass and your table service. The annual meeting and auction will follow at 3:00-4:00 pm with Don Brown describing your donated horsey item. Social hour with some guitar picking afterwards. This time change will allow members who drive distances, better traveling time and time to visit with friends. Hopefully, the weather will be good and the roads clear. For more information on this event contact me at 989-661-2541. Our website shtra.org has email contact with Webmaster Barb Drake.
Members, please go to our website and find out about important fall event information, pictures and acknowledgements that have occurred. Read and thank those who generously donated their time, teams and wagons, food and participants prizes for Ichabod Crane Day, The Spooky Ride, Golden Leaf and Horseshoe Rides. SHTRA deeply appreciates those member’s commitments for these successful events.
The SHTRA Golden Leaf and Hunting Golden Horseshoes Rides were held October 24 and 25. We had great time thanks to hosts Patty Pogue and Karen Hopkins. Numbered leaves and horseshoes had been hidden along the trails. Participants had to find and return them for their prizes. Wow, what nice prizes, candy and treats! SHTRA thanks Patty and Karen for their generous donations and organizing two fun rides. They furnished hotdogs, cider and lots of other goodies to munch on. They did a fantastic job!!! The campfire time was spent reminiscing and planning another event like this for Oct. 2010.
Marsha Putnam
NOVEMBER
Ichabod Crane Day was held Oct. 10th-- a cool windy day allowed weekend events without rain. Wagon rides were given to several hundred fun seekers. Costumed riders, Wayne Mears and Agnes Wallace were dressed as Ichabod and Katrina. Mike Woods was our Headless Horseman this year. These riders interacted with folks at the campground and along the wagon route. Teamsters who donated their time and teams were: Gary and Sharon Fortin with Ruth and Haley, Russ and Julie Stickle with George and Chuck, Al and Cheryl Goodrich with Babe and Belle, Paul and Jato Davis with Sally and Sadie, West and Lori Luther with Garth and Mac, Kevin and Kerry Dutcher with Dane and Emmy, T.J. and Amber Hunt with Rock and Booker. SHTRA thanks these teams and their handlers for attending this unique event. They were all given gloves donated by Don and Pat Brown and bags of oats donated by SHTRA. Thanks to Gary Fortin, Don Brown, Sue Chant and Gale Moore for all the extra things they did that make this day possible.
This year, we staged our events at the large beach parking lots, which allowed us more wiggle room to hold fun games for the young at heart participants. Dianne and Myron Karsten with their family and friends volunteering, hosted the pumpkin bowling, an awful creepy feel box, dig for buried treasures and creatures, blowing big bubbles and rolling a 6 ft. ball! Thank you “Kartsen Clan” for your hours of work. Barb Drake, Sharon Fortin, Sue Chant, Julie Townsend, Linda Kraai and I were in various costumes interacting with the crowd. Thanks to the other volunteers who took tickets, passed out candy, headed teams, helped folks on and off the wagons, cleaned up after us.
Afterwards, we headed back to the staging area and SHTRA’s grilled brats potluck. Thanks to all who brought food and help grill. A group of us camped overnight and did a pancake breakfast Sunday morning.
Then the Spooky Ride hosted by The Double M 4-H Club began. The following is by
Double M leader, Sandy Bashore:
“Where can you watch horses as Little Red Riding Hood, The Big Bad Wolf, Indiana Jones, Zorro, a Zebra, witches,
vampires and a Gaiting Sombreroed Guitar Duo? Why, at the Spooky Ride, of course! On Sunday October11, 45
riders and horses, many in above costumes, came together to enjoy the crisp air and beautiful fall colors of the
Sleepy Hollow State Park trails. After riding the decorated trails, all enjoyed the bonfire and hotdogs conjured up by
the Weenie Wizard. Thank you Amber Schupp! There was hot and cold witches’ brew, doughnuts and candy! Horses were
asked to go over that Troll Bridge, through the Ghostly Gauntlet, past the Deadly Dear. It was fun and raised funds for a
good cause. Double M 4-H Club hosted the day to raise funds for SHTRA to assist in keeping the horse trails operational."
SHTRA thanks the Double M gang for bringing fun and food to the trails for a great time. We appreciate their support.
Are there any other 4-H clubs that want to get in on the fun of creative equine community service?
Next year, Sleezy Barb Horsewear has proposed sponsoring a costumed ride for equines and riders. So blow the dust off those sewing machines, get planning your outfit and see what you can create for your equine buddy. Go to our website shtra.org to see what a fine bunch of horsemen can look like.
September’s and October’s Board minutes are on the web site. Our last event weekend “The Golden Rides” will be held Oct 23-25. $12.00 per night payable to State of MI. Fundraiser $3.00 entry fee for Find the horseshoes and golden leaves. Hotdog roast and potluck. Long sleeved T-shirts. Contact Patty 517-320-1309
Next SHTRA Board meeting will be Dec. 8th at Pat Browns 6:30pm. Agenda = Christmas Goodies and ideas for 2010. Be looking for your renewal membership by email. Maybe this will save us the cost of many mailings. If your reading this and thinking SHTRA does a lot of fun events, come join us.
The date of February 6, 2010 had been set for the Annual Meeting, Victor TWP Hall Alward Rd. Laingsburg has been reserved. NOTE: Time Change-- Hall set up at Noon. Potluck begins at 2:00pm. Bring a dish to pass. Auction following at 4:00 pm. Bring a horsey item to donate. Social hour to follow. This time change will allow those members who drive distances better traveling time and time to visit with friends. Hopefully, the weather will be good and the roads clear. For more information contact 989-661-2541, and website shtra.org has email contact with webmaster Barb.
Wearing Orange?
Marsha Putnam
OCTOBER
Don’t miss the happenings for Ichabod Crane Days October 9, 10 and 11. Overnight camping is optional for Friday and Saturday night at $12.00 per night payable to the State of Michigan. Registration will be at Horseman’s Staging area with one group campfire each night. Saturday and Sunday mornings pancake breakfasts. Horse drawn wagon rides will be given on Saturday Oct.10th from Noon until 2:30 pm for the people campers and the public at the beach parking lot area. $1.00 per child and $2.00 per adult. This unique fundraiser gives the wagon riders a chance to have an old-fashioned wagon ride, fun games and a viewing of the Headless Horseman!!!!!! Of course, Ichabod Crane and his friends will be there. Volunteers are needed to help stage this event as tickets takers, team headers, witch battalion, pumpkin bowling, poop scoopers, etc…. Members this is your chance to help out and have a great time. We will have someone at the staging area to watch the picketed horses for volunteers that will be working the wagon rides. After the wagon riding festivities, SHTRA will be grilling brats back at the staging area pavilion. Members, please bring a dish to pass to honor the teamsters who donated their horses and wagons to make this event happen. Costumes are encouraged and who knows what you’ll see or be. Contact Gary at 989-834-1813, Marsh at 989-661-2541 or the web shtra.org for more information.
On Sunday Oct.11th, the Double M 4-H Club headed by Sandy Bashore will be host for SHTRA’s Halloween Spooky Ride. From 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, the trails of Sleepy Hollow will be decorated with Spooky obstacles----great for the horses!!!! Ride and Trick or Treat for candy at the trail stations. All kids and adults are welcome. $10.00 donation per rider includes our lunch. Call Sandy at 989-682-4254 for more info. So don’t miss these two back-to-back, fun-filled days and nights, packed with Ichabod Crane Halloween Fun.
If you don’t get your fill of Halloween Fun and fall trail riding, attend our Autumn Gold weekend October 23, 24 and 25. Saturday- The Golden Leaf Ride will be held from 11:00am to 3:30 pm and on Sunday- The Golden Horseshoes Ride will occur at the same times. After Saturday’s ride, there will be a Hot Dog Roast. Please bring a dish to pass. $3.00 donation to cover ride prize expenses. The camping fee is $12.00 per night, payable to the State of Michigan with registration at the staging area. This weekend event, with group campfire, will be hosted by SHTRA’s Patty Pogue and Karen Hopkins. Find more info at shtra.org or 517-320-1309 or 517-283-3059. Costumes are optional.
August 27-30th were the dates for the Summer Splash CMO sponsored by Sleezy Barb Horsewear and SHTRA. Barb Drake hosted this fun packed event which was MICMO/NACMO sanctioned and I assisted her. The thick vegetation and twisty trails made participants trust their compass reading, clever slues and CMO savvy. The event was well attended in spite of the cool damp weather that felt like fall. Our potluck dinners and campfire kept everyone full and warm. On Thursday evening, Barb packed her truck w/folks to make an ice cream run to Blue Moon Ice Cream in Ovid while I set the trails for a poker run. The winner of the poker run donated her winnings back to SHTRA. Besides winning gold dollars every day, each CMO participant, on Saturday, received a Horse Quencher (the convenient way to keep your horse hydrated), graciously donated by Horse Quencher LLC, http://www.horsequencher.com Barb also had a fun drawing Friday evening with horsey and non-horsey gifts for the attendees. SHTRA thanks her for her generous donation of time, effort and monies from this fun event. We also wish to thank the CMO participants who traveled across the state from all directions to attend the Summer Splash CMO. Give one of their rides a try. For more details please visit: http://www.micmo.org
September 12 the Mounted Division of Clinton County met for a trail ride, picnic and bonfire at the park. Al Goodrich and his family hosted these hard working horsemen and women. Pat Brown and several SHTRA members assisted.
July 28th, Gary Fortin and his draft horse team gave wagon rides to 200 youth participating in The City Kids to the Park Day. Thanks, Gary for showing our country's rural heritage to today's innercity youth.
The next Board meeting will be October 13th at Pat Brown’s at 6:30 pm. Hopefully, we’ll be able to begin plans for a trail heading south to the boat launch area.
Sincerely,
Marsha Putnam, President
SEPTEMBER
Saturday September 12 is when members and guests get ride with Mounted Division members from several different counties. This is an opportunity to meet and acknowledge these hard working equestrians. Host Al Goodrich, a Clinton County Officer is planning a 1:00 pm potluck. Bring a dish to pass and your table service. There will be a grill. Riding the trails at Sleepy Hollow will follow. Overnight camping is optional for $12.00 per rig payable to The State of Mi. One group campfire will be allowed. Contact Al at 989-834-2408 or Marsha 989-661-2541 for more information.
The fourth annual Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail Ride will be held September 26th. This is a fantastic fundraising fun ride. Those who have attended won’t want to miss this event. The Rangers 4H Club is planning a Judged Trail Ride for Saturday, September 26, 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 go to Sleepy Hollow and the Kris Marie Kulhanek Memorial Scholarship Fund. To register for this ride, please contact Mary Mallory at 517-651-6884. To receive a registration form for the ride via email, please contact Robin at stechsch@msu.edu. To camp overnight on Sept. 25 & 26, register at the Horseman’s Staging Area for $12.00 per night.
The Dennis Austin Memorial Night Ride weekend was well attended with members and guests totaling over 65. Saturday’s Scavenger hunt made naturalists out of 14 participants. We allowed folks to go back out and find what they needed to complete their lists. Gale Moore set a timed ride won by Nancy Simmond –she was right on his set time out of ten entries! Poker Runs were held both days that had folks looking for the hidden ribbon bags. The large pots were split 50/50 and the lucky winners donated monies back to SHTRA. Thank you! Nicola Reeves, equine masseuse worked her skills for 6 horses of lucky members. We appreciate her donating her valuable time and knowledge to SHTRA members that afternoon. She is available for consultation at 517-449-6026. Saturdays evening potluck had us cooking brats and dogs for the gathering crowd. Gale Moore, Gary & Sharon Fortin, Linda Kraai, Don Brown and I were busy working the grills. Afterwards, our 50/50 raffle was won by Lucky Don Brown. He generously donated his winnings back again. Evenings games included Egg and Spoon and a Silly Stick Horse Race Emceed by Therese and Dave Kline. The evening rides both nights were held in memory of Denny Austin. Our group campfire was enjoyed by many including the raccoons, who came to see what goodies were still on the tables, especially Jena’s birthday cake. Thanks to all who pitched in with breakfast goodies each morning and helped out with the many tasks. To those who missed this event, you missed out on a great time. Next year the weekend of July 25 is the full moon and tentative date.
The next Bd. meeting is September 8 at 6:30 pm Horseman’s Staging Area. Members are welcome to join to help with the planning of Oct. 10th Ichabod Crane Day, campover and Oct 11th Spooky ride. Oct. 24th & 25 will be the Golden Days Campover. Several spots on the trail need some attention and members will be alerted by email for those fix’em dates.
Sincerely,
Marsha Putnam, President
AUGUST
Summer Splash CMO August 27-30 is coming and this is an event you don’t want to miss. There will be a Beginners Clinic on Saturday at 10:00 am to answer questions and give first timers a chance to see how much fun Competitive Mounted Orienteering is. Come and give it a try—like GeoCashing on horseback-no need to dismount-novice or experienced-a chance to ride and try some new game on horseback. Potluck Saturday at 6:00pm for everyone. This is a sanctioned ride by NACMO and MICMO. This event is sponsored by SleezyBarbHorsewear for SHTRA as a fundraiser and welcomes your support. Overnight rustic camping is optional. Check out our web site shtra.org or visit www.sleezybarbhorsewear.com For more information contact Barb Drake (989-227-0045) or email sbh01@voyager.net
June 20th the State of Michigan celebrated it’s 90th Birthday for the State Park Department. Sleepy Hollow State Park was chosen to host the Dignitary DNR Party. SHTRA, MTRA, MHC and MEP are the equine groups who donated funds honoring the DNR with cake and ice cream. SHTRA members also provided horse drawn wagon rides for the spectators. Teamsters were Gary and Sharon Fortin, Al and Cheryl Goodrich, and Amber and TJ Hunt. Mike Foote represented MHC and grilled up goodies. Gale Moore manned the MTRA table and Linda Kraai, Diane Karsten, Don Brown, Floyd and Jackie Fisher helped w/SHTRA materials and headed the teams. Yes, equestrians made a visual presence at the party.
Thanks goes to Don Brown using his tractor for brush-hogging both loops through this year’s tall grasses. With all the rain, the grass was getting high and the mud spots longer. We held a July 11th workbee to install a culvert in a difficult greasy clay location, spread gravel/fix mud holes and seriously trim back this year’s overgrowth. Volunteers totaled over 100 hours that day were -Gale Moore, Gary Fortin, Lonnie Buck, Mike Woods, Dave Richmond, Myron and Diane Karsten, Amanda Karsten, Linda Kraai, Floyd and Jackie Fisher and myself. When we broke for lunch on Taft Rd., we were a wet, muddy group of sweaty workers. Thanks to those who brought equipment- bobcat, tractors, atv’s and what a wonderful lunch we put together. Thank goodness for Fisher’s super duper power washer, the gators looked green again. On Tuesday July 14, Gary, Gale, Myron and myself continued cutting back, chain sawing and leveling out the trail. I had to quit after 4 hours but those guys continued on for 10 hours. Everyone who rides or drives that trail owes them a BIG thank you. Ride it and not get wet! Remember---Workbee hours earn FREE camping!!
The Drive in the Park on July18 & 19 welcomed a wagon & buggy train weekend. Early arrivals enjoyed chicken fajitas on Friday. Saturday morning everyone was excited to participate in forming a train that drove through, out and around the park. Different sized horses, wagons, carts and outriders had everyone looking and appreciating our uniqueness. After the drive, we shared a huge potluck dinner. Between Gale Moore cooking breakfast, Sharon Fortin grilling and Sue Chart delivered hot oatmeal bakes, we ate too well. Thanks to those who brought wonderful goodies to share. I set poker runs on each loop and riders had to search for the ribbons. Jeff Allen and Linda Kraai won the lucky poker hands and Lori Coffin won the 50/50. Thank you to those who supported our fund raising efforts and cleaned their picket sites. It was nice to meet new friends from about the state. Event organizers, Gary & Sharon Fortin and Gale Moore did a fantastic job and hope you don’t miss it next year.
September 12 Campover night welcomes Clinton Co. Mounted division and any other interested groups. September 26 The Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail Ride. Don’t miss this one!
The next Board meeting will be Sept. 8 at 6:30 pm Horseman’s Staging Area. Members welcome to help plan Oct. 10 &11 Ichabod Crane festivities & Oct.24 & 25 SHTRA Ride for Gold.
Sincerely,
Marsha Putnam, President
JULY
At the June 9 Board meeting, SHTRA welcomed new member Kathy Briggeman. Plans for May’s rescheduled workbee were made for July 11th to gravel low areas from Taft Rd. and “cart r eady” the west loop. Atv’s w/cart, bobcats, tractors w/front-end loaders would be appreciated. We’ll start early and work until done. Volunteers can park at Taft or carpool from the staging area. Gale Moore is heading up this workbee. He can be contacted 517-290-7624 or gmmcrtech@comcast.net Lunch at noon. Anyone want to join me as lunch lady? Hairnet not required.
Plans were made for the July 18/19 SHTRA Drive In the Park and fundraising Poker Runs. Public welcome. A wagon train for all horse drawn rigs and outriders will leave the park promptly at 11:00 am for a 6 mile blacktop drive. 2:00 Potluck Dinner.Afterwards, carts can drive an optional staging area obstacle course or the scenic west loop for an optional Poker Run.We’ll offer a Poker Run for riders on the east loop. $5.00 entry fee. Both pots split 50/50 between SHTRA and winners. Campfire and optional campover. Sunday pancake breakfast. West loop will be open Sunday for a scenic drive. These will be the only two days this year that the trail will be open for carts. Contact Gary at 989-834-1813 or shagary@peoplepc.com Contact Marsh at 989-661-2541 for $12.00 camping info, preregistration not necessary but helpful.
July 31, Aug. 1&2 are the dates for the SHTRA DAMN Ride. This is memory of former board member Dennis Austin. Two campover nights optional. Members with workbee hours camp free overnight. There will be fun games, poker run at 11:00 am, a timed ride and who knows what else. Join the fun.Potluck Sat. at 5:00 pm with SHTRA providing the meat. Sunday pancake breakfast. Contact Marsha at 989-661-2541 or marken68@aol.com to register.
Memorial weekend the Blazing Saddles 4-H Club & SHTRA held a fundraiser poker run and campover. Leader Mary O’Dell and her club enjoyed riding the trails. Most of the kids had not been there before and it was a treat to see them having a blast. Some went fishing and had fishy stories to tell around the campfire. All their meals were cooked over the fire including the fish. They did a great job cleaning up and can’t wait to come back. Thanks goes to Mark Zale for donating his winning poker hand monies back to SHTRA.!!!
Check out our web shtra.org for more info on upcoming events and photos of the past. Sleezy Barb Drake has been busy working on it and it’s pretty sharp. Don’t forget that Barb and I are putting on SHTRA’s Summer Splash CMO Aug. 27-30.Here’s your chance to check out the “Thinking Horseman’s Sport”. Saturday at 10:00pm there will be a Beginner’s Clinic. So grab a riding buddy and give this event a try. 100% of the fundraiser goes to SHTRA!!! Thank you, Barb. If you want an informational flyer, contact Barb at 989-227-0045 or sbh01@voyager.net
CIS Rail Trail meetings are cancelled for July due to slow planning progress. The next Friends group will meet in St.Johns on 7:00 pm Aug.12. Tri Co Bd. Aug.21th CCCH 3:30 pm The study for the Open Houses has been compiled and I just got copies of the comments, emails and resulting PowerPoint presentation. It looks like that the equestrian turnout and input did make a difference in the fact that the planners are considering a parallel trail. Thanks to those who did make comments. This is still not a done deal for the horse trail. The DNR Planning committee will not meet until Sept. The naming proposal is still in committee and the governing authority is being formed. Many meetings ahead to hammer out a plan. Contact me at marken68@aol.com for info.
Next SHTRA Bd. meeting July 7 at the pavilion. Agenda plans include trail expansion proposal and planning upcoming events. Volunteers needed to help at any of these events.
Sincerely,
Marsha Putnam
JUNE
SHTRA welcomes 2009 memberships with Katie Collier and Carrie & Bob Barr. Welcome! Don’t forget to check out our website by “Sleazy Barb” Drake. View event updates, apparel, Board minutes, and for email contact us at www.shtra.org It is no longer shtra.com.
At the May 12th Bd. meeting, we decided to cancel the May 16 workbee #3 & campout because of the extremely wet conditions hampering trail conditions. The Rangers’ Poker Run for May 17 was also cancelled. We voted to support the park 90th Birthday festivities. Stay alert for email updates with our role in this DNR sponsored event. The rescheduled dates for the workbee and Poker Run are TBA. I provided the Board a copy of the newly signed Partnership Agreement with the DNR. Next Bd. meeting will be June 9th at Pat Brown’s.
Our second workbee was held April 25 to attack the protruding rose and rhino thornbushes. We filled ruts, drained water holes and tried to get water off the trail. This springs unending storms have left us with a high water table and sloppy trail conditions. These twelve hard working members compiled 61 volunteer hours; Lonnie Buck, Don & Pat Brown, Jenny Sedlacek, Marty Castle, Zane Swagart, Donna Apostal, Linda Kraai, Dave Richmond, Mike Woods, Val Lau, and me. Sue Chant was our beloved lunch lady that day as she had a feast waiting for us when we came in. We thank her and others who donated food that day. Afterwards, I thank those who stayed and washed the park gators before returning them.
April 26 was the date for SHTRA’s 9th Rotten Egg Hunt. The Rotten Egg Hunt is held the second Sunday after Easter each year. It was cloudy & wet but the crowd of enthusiastic egg hunters was able to complete the task without rain! They ranged in age from 4 to12 with assistance from parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Six beautiful green Emu eggs (graciously donated by Beth Repas) were highly sought after, the numerous “rotten eggs” could be exchanged for stuffed toys, and a huge quantity of candy filled eggs were all hidden near the staging area. The hunt was quick paced and everyone intently combed the area. All enjoyed the comraderary and spring weather as well as the sweet rewards. Event coordinator, Pat Brown, would like to thank all members who assisted and donated articles for the hunt. Pat says, “ It’s a 'rotten way' to start the riding year- with good friends, smiling children, horses, and sweet treats! Come join us next year!”
May 2nd was SHTRA’s third Plow Day. Due to the extremely wet ground, the plowing of wildlife food plots could not be done. Event coordinators, Gary & Sharon Fortin and Gale Moore planned a Fun Pull and Obstacle Course that kept the 12 attending teams busy. Our staging was a perfect location for consolidating working the teams. Visitors to the event were transported from the parking lots by 7 teams that took turns with the wagons. Thanks go to teamsters and their teams for moving folks back and forth- Al & Cheryl Goodrich, Kerri & Kevin Duther, Amber & TJ Hunt, Gary & Sharon Fortin, Dale Pollock, West & Lori Luther. Extra Drivers were Mike Stevens & Nick McNew. There were several other teams who attended but did not sign in. Mike Woods worked his horse as outrider, traffic director and message runner.
Seventeen SHTRA members helped direct traffic, load and unload wagons, take donations, collect raffle tickets, sell t-shirts, head and hook teams. Dale Martens donated the use of his PA system, load sled, tractor and announced the events as they occurred. The 7 obstacle course was tricky challenge but the well-trained teams were outstanding. The placings were 1st Don Brown, 2nd Paul Davis, 3rd Tracy Thomas, 4th Jim Martens, 5th Dale Pollock, 6th Nick McNew. The pull sled topped out at 5,900 lbs with Tracy Thomas 1st, Don Pollock 2nd, Jim Martens 3rd, John Chorley 4th, and Don Brown 5th. Congratulations to all the winners! Halters, oats, hats were given as prizes. Donators of the draft halters were Sue Chant, Country Store, Exotic Rays, Stewart Properties, Lori Coffin, “Sleezy Horsewear” Barb Drake, Gary Fortin, and WesLor Creations. Vera Thornton, well known artist, attended and had her books, prints available. She donated for raffle, a large original oil painting of last year’s event. It was won by Tracy Thomas. Thank you, Vera! Clyde Lewis photographed the event. Country Line Concessions provided the lunch wagon for the huge crowd. Sue made us cinnamon rolls.Yum! SHTRA thanks Gary & Gale for their time and labor pullin’ Plow Day together.
Next Draft horse events will be June 20thfor the State Park’s 90th Birthday Party, SHTRA’s July 17th wagon train, campfire and drive in the park and Oct. 10th Ichabod Crane Day.
What else is next? Check the web. shtra.org
Marsha Putnam
*May 23-24 SHTRA & Blazing Saddles 4-H Club will be camping out. Pre-registration of $12.00 rustic rate per night, vehicle permit, and all state park rules apply.
*July 18 Driving in the Park- Draft horse wagon team train 6 mile drive. Cart drive optional on west loop. Potluck and optional overnight camping. Contact Gary 989-834-1813
*July 31/Aug.2 SHTRA DAMN Ride/Pokers Runs/Potluck , campfire and optional overnight with pre-registration 989-661-2541 or marken68@aol.com
*Aug. 27/30- Summer Splash CMO-MICMO RSVP overnight optional camping. Contact Barb email sbh01@voyager.net
*Sept.12- SHTRA/Clinton Co Mounted Division Ride w/ other mounted divisions, potluck dinner, overnight camping optional, Al Goodrich Host 989-834-2408
*Sept. 26-Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail Ride by The Ranger’s 4-H, 4 divisions, cash payback , optional camping RSVP Mary 517-651-6884 fivemfarm@aol.com
*Oct. 10- Ichabod Crane Day 10:30-? Wagon Rides at Noon w/ Ichabod Crane & Headless Horseman, 3:00 pm Potluck, costumes and overnight camping RSVP 989-661-2541 or 989-834-1813
*Oct. 11-SHTRA/Spooky Ride-Double M 4-H Club Host Sandy 989-682-4354 sbashore@voyager.net
*Oct. 24/25-SHTRA Gold-Sat “ The Golden Leaf Ride”/Sun. “The Gold Horseshoe”-11:00-3:30pm Prizes. Hot Dogs w/ Sat. Potluck.Optional overnight. Hosts Karen and Patty 517-320-1309 bppogue@dmcibb.net
CIS Updates have been sent to those who signed up for email contact. DNR planning for this Rail Trail is in active progress and we’ll be informed at the next Friend of the CIS Group in Owosso June10 at 7:00pm or the nextTri County June 19 at 3:30 CCCH. I thank all who email DNR comments for equestrian support on these 41 miles. I appreciate support from the Back Country Horsemen of Michigan. They are concerned partners for equal rights of trail development for equestrians. The web site for BCHMI will also contain updates on this trail and others Michigan horse trail developments and important pending legislation. It is www.bchmi.org Check it out.
Marsh Putnam
MAY
Don't forget PLOW DAYS May 2nd at SHSP 10:00am-3:00pm!!! Teams plowing, wagon rides, lunch wagon, fun obstacle course, 50/50 Raffle, Hosted by SHTRA and MI DNR. Contact Gary 989-834-1813
SHTRA welcomes 2009 memberships with Tom & Sandra Terranova, Diana and & Ed Carpenter, and Rebecca & Roger Davenport. This raises our adult membership to over one hundred members! Don’t forget to check out our website by “Sleezy Barb” Drake. View event updates, apparel, Board minutes, and for email contact us at www.shtra.org
Sunday April 19th workbee was not a rainout but the trails were very muddy. We did erosion control at several gullies, dug drains for muddy areas. and spring clean up at the staging area. Thanks go to Mike Woods, Gary Fortin, Dave Richmond, his tractor, Therese and Dave Kline, Jeff Sawyer, Linda Kraai, Joyce Malzahn, Pat Brown and Jen Sedlacek. Sandy Bashore was waiting as lunch lady, when I came in from the trail. Thank goodness for her good hearing, because she located my “lost for three hours” cell phone. Thanks to those who don't mind playing in the mud and brought yummy snacks.
Plans were made for the next April 25 and May 16 workbees. Leon Searles has helped us out with a train load of gravel, that will be moved to wet areas. We really appreciated his generosity. Remember those that have 4 hrs. of workbee time earn one overnight camping free. May 16th will have an afternoon potluck and campfire and camping. Call 989-661-2541 to pre-register.
Don't forget Sunday May 17th will be our first Poker Run 10-3 pm hosted by the Rangers 4H club. I think there will be a $5.oo entry fee and splitting the cash pot. For details call 517-651-6884, email Mary fivemfarm@aol.com or www.shtra.org.
May 23-24 SHTRA & Blazing Saddles 4-H Club will be camping out. Pre-registration of $12.00 rustic rate per night, vehicle permit, and all state park rules apply.
July 18 Driving in the Park- Draft horse wagon team train 6 mile drive. Cart drive optional on west loop. Potluck and optional overnight camping. Contact Gary 989-834-1813
July 31/Aug.2 SHTRA DAMN Ride/Pokers Runs/Potluck, campfire and optional overnight with pre-registration 989-661-2541 or marken68@aol.com
Aug. 27/30- Summer Splash CMO-MICMO RSVP overnight optional camping. Contact Marsh 989-661-2541 or Barb email sbh01@voyager.net
Sept.12- SHTRA/Clinton Co Mounted Division Ride w/ other mounted divisions, potluck dinner, overnight camping optional, Al Goodrich Host 989-834-2408
Sept. 26-Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail Ride by The Ranger’s 4-H, 4 divisions, cash payback, optional camping RSVP Mary 517-651-6884 fivemfarm@aol.com
Oct. 10- Ichabod Crane Day 10:30-? Wagon Rides at Noon w/ Ichabod Crane, Headless Horseman, 3:00 pm Potluck, costumes and overnight camping RSVP 989-661-2541 or 989-834-1813
Oct. 11-SHTRA/Spooky Ride-Double M 4-H Club Host Sandy 989-682-4354 sbashore@voyager.net
Oct. 24/25-SHTRA Gold-Sat “ The Golden Leaf Ride”/Sun. “The Gold Horseshoe”- 11:00-3:30pm Prizes. Hot Dogs w/ Sat. Potluck. Optional overnight. Hosts Karen and Patty 517-320-1309 bppogue@dmcibb.net
CIS Updates have been sent to those who signed up for email contact. DNR planning for this Rail Trail is in active progress and we’ll be informed at the next Friend of the CIS Group in Pewamo, May 13th 7:00pm or at the Tri County meeting May 15th at 3:30 CCCH. I thank all who attended the DNR Open Houses or emailed their comments for equestrian support to get horses on these 41 miles. I appreciate the support from the Back Country Horsemen of Michigan. They are concerned partners for equal rights of trail development for equestrians. The web site for BCHMI will also contain updates on this trail and others Michigan horse trail developments and important pending legislation. It is www.bchmi.org Check it out.
Next SHTRA Board meeting will be May 12, 2009 at Pat Brown’s 7:00 pm
Marsh Putnam, President
APRIL
SHTRA welcomes Mike & Cathie Wood, Connie Frey, Therese & Dave Kline, Jean Tata & Ray Dodge, Lonnie & Cathy Buck, Janet Phillips, Dave & Judy Huhn, Christine & Joe Anderson, Tom & Sunny Laird, Brain & Amy Fisher, Sue Chant, Gary & Sharon Fortin, Chuck & Lisa Rahall, Sue Throw, Donna & Pete Apostol, Mary Jo & Bill O'Dell, Larry & Renee Prochazka, Myron & Dianne Karsten, Amber Hunt, Judy Lessard, Sue Armstrong, Denise Wylie, Peggy Borgman, Ellen Hart, Marsha Korroch, David Dumond, Marty Castle, Judy Marteniuk, Jim and Juanita Atkinson, Floyd and Jackie Fisher, Val Lau, and Jenny and Bill Sedlacek. We are excited that so many folks have joined and renewed their memberships.
There was a large crown of over 100 people attending the Feb.21 Annual Meeting and Auction. The potluck dinner was wonderful and no one went home hungry. I conducted a short business meeting with the reelection of Pat Brown, Gale Moore, Janet Phillips and myself. Sue Chant, Barb Drake, Jackie Fisher and Connie Frey were nominated and elected to the Bd. Don Brown was our auctioneer with Floyd Fisher and Val Lau assisting. Park Manager, Tim Machowski attended and sold '09 park stickers. Therese Kline was the high bidder for the coveted park sticker. Our door prize-a ‘09 sticker was won by Ionia's Vicki Potter. The businesses that donated to the auction were Tom's Western Store, The Wire Horse, Sleezy Barb Horsewear, Clinton Vet Clinic, Dr. Roger Massa, DO, and ZCI. Member Sue Chant donated an equine emergency kit valued at $125.00. SHTRA thanks all who generously bid on and donated the numerous items.
The MHC Horse Expo was well attended by SHTRA members and volunteers doing booth duty. Thanks goes to Patty, Bob, Lonnie, Gary, Jean & Ray, Pat & Jenny, Chris, Linda, Connie, Marsha K, Sue T., Dianne, Theresa, Kathryn, Sandra, Sue C., and Mary. Thanks to Rob, Myron and Connie for keeping us stocked w/flyers. I really appreciate Gale Moore’s help w/set up and manning the MHC's booth next door. Therese & Dave K. had an impressive MTRA booth. I had a CIS Rail Trail Info board and we had many inquiries on upcoming DNR meetings. The highlight of the weekend was receiving personally autographed photos for SHTRA from Keynote speaker, Tom Seay, from Best of America by Horseback. That will be in our bulletin board at the park. Priceless encouragement. SHTRA folks are proactive. Join us!
Work bees- Staging Area Sunday April 19 at 9:00am-? and Saturday, April 25. Workbees focus will be trimming thorn bush areas and repairing gully erosion. Volunteers are needed with Kubota’s, bobcats, shovels and garden rakes. ATV's are needed to get out to those thorny areas. Handy tools will be saws, prunners/nippers and thick gloves. A Lunch Lady is needed to help make worker's super sandwiches. Volunteers with over 4 hours of work earn one overnight's camping fee.
After the work bee on April 25, there will be a SHTRA Saturday dinner potluck, first '09 campfire and overnight camping. We hope the weather will be accommodating. Info and fees on this overnighter - contact me @ 989-661-2541 or Pat @ 517-651-5984 or shtra.org.
The Rotten Egg Hunt starts at 2:00 pm Sunday April 26. This unique event is for members and guests. Come and look for those hidden treasures the Easter bunny left. The little folks will have a special area where they search. Volunteers needed for egg stuffing. Info 517-651-5984
May 2 10:00am-3:00pm. Plow Day. East Picnic Area. Watch draft horse teams plowing wildlife food plots, w/ obstacle course. 1:00 am- 50/50 raffle Open Fun Pull w/stone boat. Prizes for some events. Lunch wagon on site. Fenton Artist, Vera Thornton will be on site sketching and will have prints, coloring books & equine books for sale. SHTRA Volunteers needed-Sue Chant's cinnamon rolls for early arrivals. Contact Gary at 989-834-1813 or shargary@peoplepc.com
*May17-SHTRA/Ranger's 4-H Club Poker Run ~ Mary 517-651-6884 fivemfarm@aol.com
*May 23/24- SHTRA/Blazing Saddles 4-H Club Camping & Riding, optional camping, Mary O'Dell 989-288-4522 michiganfilly@aol.com
*July 18- Driving the west loop via cart and park blacktop draft team wagon trail, optional overnight, Contact Gary 989-834-1813 shargary@peoplepc.com
*July 31/Aug. 2-SHTRA DAMN Ride-Dennis Austin Memorial Night Ride/ Potluck/Poker Runs/Optional overnights w/ RSVP – 989-661-2541 marken68@aol.com
*Aug. 27/30- Summer Splash CMO, RSVP overnight camping, Barb sbh01@voyager.net or for a PRINTABLE FLIER
Marsha Putnam, President
FEBRUARY
Don't forget February 21st for our Eleventh Annual Potluck Dinner Meeting. This fun evening will be held at the Victor TWP Hall at 6843 Alward Rd. Laingsburg. Members and guests are welcome to attend and enjoy the evening. Hall set up starts at 4:00 pm and if you can help getting the tables and chairs out, it's really appreciated. Please bring your table service and a horse/trail rider item to donation for the auction. We'll have hot coffee, ice, & water. The ovens will be warm if you need to keep your dish-to-pass hot. 2009 plans, volunteer acknowledgements, election to the board, the new trail proposal and equestrian camping opportunities will be discussed after the 6:00 pm potluck dinner. If you get a business to donate an item or it’s services for the auction, we can offer our non-profit tax ID. Don Brown and Floyd Fisher have volunteered their auctioneering skills. They’ll think of some clever way to use these items. Park Manager, Tim Machowski will be attending and have 2009 DNR Vehicle Permits available. This is a great time to get your permit, it shows the revenue equestrians bring to the park and you won’t have to stop to buy one. Thanks to Mike Woods, SHTRA has new iron/sew on colorful patches for $5.00. We'll have our tee shirts available. Door prizes, great food, finding auction treasures and helping to support SHTRA make a fun night out- Don’t miss it! For more information, call me 989-661-2541.
Next Bd. meeting is February 10, 2009 at 7:00pm at Pat Brown's. Planning 2009 events, special event campovers and the new trail extension are on agenda. Our website will have a new name-shtra.org and be updated with new features. Thanks go to charter member Barb Drake for taking on this task. SHTRA would like to thank Wendy Walker for running the web for the last two years. If you are a computer savvy person willing to head up the membership chair, there is a computer program designed and former chair Lisa is will to help get your feet wet.
Please~Mark your calendars for the work bee dates of April 18, April 25 and May16. Special events are April 26th -The Rotten Egg Hunt, May 2nd- Plow Day, May17th- The Ranger’s 4-H Club Poker Run, July 18-Driving in the Park, July 31-Aug. 2nd - The DAMN Ride, Aug. 28-30th-Sleezy Barb’s Summer Splash CMO, Sept. 26th-Kris Kulhanek Judged Trail Ride, Oct. 10- Ichabod Crane Day. A Spooky Scary Ride pending. Any more ideas? Please attend Feb.10 or email me at marken68@aol.com
CIS Rail to Trail informational meetings will be 7:00 pm on. Feb. 11 at Pewamo Village Hall and at the Clinton County Courthouse 3:30 pm on Feb. 20th. A Trail Rider organizational meeting for TRAM will be held 2:00 pm on Feb. 7th at the Midland Dow Diamond Center. Email for more information.
We welcome these members for 2009-Karen Armbruster, Barb Drake, Robin/Richard Stechschulte, Ron/Mary Mallory, Lloyd/Cindy Kendall, Karen Kilpartick, Tim/Sara Spiess, Whitney Rambo, Colleen Ruess, Jackie Cross, Kayla Campbell, Alex Stechschulte, Brendan Butcher, Karley VanWormer, Joan Spindler, Dottie/Bob Vincent, Pauline Sarka, Del/Jean Austin, Marcia/Dean Felpausch, Patty/Bob Pogue, Dennis/Jill Boelter, Dale/Debbie Bullen, Robert/Karen Ellerhorst, Sharon Helman, Kevin/Debra Carmody, Julie Townsend, Kathy/Jim Miller, Karen/Joe Shovels, Alice Bills, Steve Kiem/Vera Kraft, Mary Wrigley, Paul Kaiser and Penny Tahvonen.
Please continue to support our membership, as these numbers are looked at by DNR for project support. New trails are what SHTRA needs and we’d appreciate everyone’s support to get them done. Our NEW Membership forms can be cut out of this publication, on line at shtra.org or email me at marken68@aol.com and I’ll send you one.
Marsha Putnam, President
JANUARY
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. Members and guests are welcome to attend and enjoy the evening. Hall set up starts at 4:00 pm and if you can help getting the tables and chairs out, it’s really appreciated. Please bring your table service and a horse item donation for the auction. We’ll have hot coffee, ice, & water. The ovens will warm if you need to keep your dish to pass hot. 2009 plans, volunteer acknowledgements, election of officers, the new trail proposal and equestrian camping opportunities will be discussed after the 6:00 pm potluck dinner. Bd. positions of Karen Hopkins and Lisa Shubitowski are open. SHTRA thanks these gals for their years of service and helping us out. We need a computer savvy person to head up the membership chair. That computer program is in place. If you can get business/services donations for the auction, we can offer our tax ID. Park Manager, Tim Machowski will be attending and have 2009 DNR Vehicle Permits available. This is a great time to get your permit, it shows the revenue equestrians bring to the park and you won't have to stop to buy one when ya get back to riding. Thanks to Mike Woods, SHTRA has new iron/sew on colorful patches for $5.00. Door prizes, great food, helping to support SHTRA and a fun night out- Don't miss it! Volunteers call me 989-661-2541.
Next Bd. meeting is Jan. 13, 2009 at 7:00pm at Pat Brown's. Planning 2009 events, campovers and the new trail extension are the main agenda topics. Workbee dates of April 25 and May16 were chosen. April 26th - TheRotten Egg Hunt, May 2nd- Plow Day, July31-Aug. 2nd - The DAMN Ride, Aug. 28-30th-Sleezy Barb's CMO, Oct. 10- Ichobod Crane Day. TBA's- Scavenger Hunt, Scary Ride, Drivin' In the Park, & Sleepy Sleep Overs. Ideas? Please attend or email me at marken68@aol.com
Please continue to support our membership, as these numbers are looked at by DNR for project support. New trails are what SHTRA needs and we'd appreciate everyone's support to get them done. Our NEW Membership forms can be cut out of this publication, on line at shtra.com, or email me at marken68@aol.com and I'll send ya one.
Marsha Putnam, President
