Georgia Paso Fino Horse Association 2006 News

December 2006 ~ Loganville Christmas Parade
by Joyce Davis

GPFHA members were out in force to represent our Paso Fino breed on Saturday, Dec. 2nd, at the Loganville Christmas parade. Thirteen riders participated in what some folks told me is one of the best-attended parade events they've ridden in with GPFHA so far. The weather was great -- cold and clear, but definitely not freezing like we all thought it would be.

The parade got under way just after sundown, and what a great showing it was for our special horses! There's nothing more awesome than seeing one Paso Fino in full, gliding corto coming at you down the street, but it's absolutely breathtaking when there are more than a dozen riding together. So it's no surprise that our horses got plenty of ooh's and ahh's from the crowd that evening.

The parade was a bit slow to get started (or maybe it just seemed that way since we were the next-to-the-last position in the lineup .... hmmmmm! Could that have something to do with horse apples?). However, not long after the parade left the elementary school property where it began, it came to a full halt and remained static for probably half an hour. No problem -- some kind citizens were there to hand out free hot chocolate, and a number of brave souls actually were able to drink it and remain mounted. (Those of us whose horses can't stand still could only look on enviously!) The delay offered a chance for everybody to chitchat, which was a great opportunity for newer members to meet the longstanding ones and for everyone to just catch up and "talk horse".

Unfortunately, before everything got moving again, news traveled down the parade route that a child had fallen off a float and been injured. The delay was caused in getting emergency vehicles to and from the scene. I'm sure all our prayers are with that child and the family.

Once the parade started again, our horses really got a chance to show off. Many parade attendees had left because of the accident, but there were still dozens of people waiting along the route and of course the big crowd was still at the end of the parade within earshot of the parade announcer. Along the way everyone had plenty of chances to "pull over" and hang out with the crowd, answer questions about Paso Finos and talk about our horses. The horses got lots of petting and compliments, and of course plenty of "Merry Christmases" were shouted out as we went by.

Some random highlights ...

• Our horses and riders were all decked out for Christmas and we were really a flashy outfit! There were tinsel garlands, red ribbons and bows, Santa hats, sleigh bells, reindeer antlers, candy-cane striped reins, plenty of sparkly Christmas apparel and even a horse hand-painted especially for the occasion.
  
• Special thanks to John Merritt , who helped a couple of latecomers get their show on the road in plenty of time to join the fun. You really are an angel!
  
• The Grinch made another of his famous appearances, serving as the designated "pooper-scooper" for the entire parade. At least, we didn't see anybody else out there with a shovel scraping the stuff -- many thanks to Boyd Russell for donning that hot, heavy costume and trailing the parade down the entire route! (Boyd , is it true that it's difficult to ride in a pair of fuzzy green britches?) The Grinch's lovely two helpers handed out candy and comic books to the kiddies and operated the motorized "poop mobile" decorated like a big Christmas present.
  
• I was very impressed with all our horses -- and not just because they're all such great lookers and smooth movers. The sheer chaos of flashing lights, loud truck engines, motorized vehicles buzzing here and there, shadows moving everywhere and people reaching out at you from the sidelines would make some breeds absolutely lose their minds, but our Pasos didn't bat an eyelash!

In all, the parade was a great success and we all had a blast. Everyone in GPFHA should take advantage of this great way to promote both our association and our special Paso Fino breed. Believe me, you owe it to yourself to ride in a parade at least once in your life -- you'll feel like the King/Queen of the Rodeo and trust me, you'll be hooked. We're looking for you to ride in the next one!

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October 2006 ~ Dream Powers Paso Demo
by Boyd Russell

Chris Williams asked us to do a demo at Dream Powers Fall Festival Saturday October 28, 2006 . Dream Power is a riding program for the handicapped. Ian and Melanie Black, members of GPFHA, are actively involved in the program and have been working in it for several years. Many other GPFHA members also assist in the riding. My wife, Su, couldn't’t make it do to dental issues this morning so I loaded up "Porcy" and off we went. Joyce Davis and Sally Fuller had a few last minute problems so I went in the arena to start the demo. I dismounted and completed some ground work with Porcy as Joyce showed off her beautiful boy, “Eclipse”. After the demo we offered to give rides to the children. I expected two or three to take us up, but before I could get out of the arena we had a long line of takers.

I began to second guess my offer as “Porcy” is usually not the most patient for mounting and is very sensitive. But my girl amazed me (her buddy “Dos” could take a lesson or two on intuitiveness!). She adapted to each child’s ability to ride. One little girl got pushed into riding by her mom. Once in the saddle she began screaming, yanking on the reins and flailing her legs in an attempt to get down. Porcy quickly went motionless and waited for the little girl to calm down. Then off at a walk we went. One fourth of the way around the arena the little girl wanted to corto like all the other kids. We did and out popped that Paso smile. We gave more rides than I could count; I could not believe that I could run along with them as much as I did! But we left today knowing there are a few more Paso lovers in the world tonight.

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October 2006 ~ Driving Magic Benefit Ride

"This is a huge "THANK YOU" going out to everyone who helped with the Driving Magic benefit ride on Oct. 7th. From behind-the-scenes people who sorted, priced and bagged prizes; picked up food and drinks for the lunches; and especially those of you who were able to come out and enjoy the incredible day we all had. We may not have had a huge crowd for our first time out; but I believe everyone there had a fantastic time. Stories, food, horses, laughter and smiles were shared by all - that's what made this a success. Matt Lindskoog of Driving Magic was there as well as some of their students. He gave a very nice speech explaining what Driving Magic is all about. It looks like we made around $1,500 - $1,600 for Driving Magic after all. Also, I want to thank Dave , Dixie , Boyd & Su for inviting Tommy & me to dinner Saturday night. We had a great time. I look forward to helping set up another fundraiser through GPFHA for next Spring."
... Chris Williams.

What an amazing weekend for my kids and I am proud as proud can be! Saturday, October 7th, was our benefit ride for Driving Magic. We had several individuals that needed a horse to ride so we loaded 4 of our own. “Gally” of course for she was the grand prize, “Two” Su's (Russell) ride, ”Porcy” - my ride (Boyd Russell), and “Dina” for whomever came along.

The morning started out as hectic as can be imagined: volunteers not showing up, or just under the wire without full briefing of how things were to be run. Chris and I were the only two that bothered to interrupt our schedules last Saturday for last minute planning. And she fell into a fire pit (literally; thank goodness there was no fire!) first thing and was in no shape to do anything. A number of volunteers wanted to stay at the campsite, so we were short for people to man the treasure chests on the trail. So Su and I had to go out on the trail, Chris tried to recover and the newbie riders of course were late to get to the ride.

So out on the trail I went just imagining the mess I would return to. And of course while waiting for riders I sit down on a Yellow Jacket nest. Mary (AKA Baily) was able to get “Dina” tacked up and out on the trail with little to no problem. And she can tell you about her ride herself.

As I was giving out gifts, a lone rider came up the trail on this nice looking grey Paso. He exchanged his gift and we said our pleasantries and off he road on this horse with a mission. As he road off, I couldn’t help but to notice the saddle he was riding was exactly the same as my daughter’s. And with the same wool seat saver; and, peculiarly enough, the same rebel flag pad. And I could not help to think that, did this guy happen to help himself to my saddle and pad. Only to find out later that this was one of the newbies borrowing my horse, “Two”, and saddle. We later chatted and had a good laugh about not recognizing my own horse; and he couldn’t stop bragging about the awesome ride he had on such an awesome horse. I was quite proud of this boy myself for taking such good care of this gentleman that had never ridden a Paso before and does not own a horse. Two also gave an after lunch ride (two whom escapes me), and then another evening ride to a friend of Dave and Dixie's.

Now for Miss “Porcy”: She worked as well, first taking Baily for a ride which she can tell you about; and then took out a friend of Dave and Dixie's (DeLozier). I don't know all the details, but the smile on her face at dinner told the story I needed to know. Then Sunday morning Chris gritted her teeth and wanted to ride so we saddled up again. But her horse, “Rebel” (Chris’s mount), was in a fine trot; she couldn’t take the pain of trying to get him to gait or the trot so “Porcy” carried her the rest of the way home. As we came into camp Chris was ready to trade “Rebel” for “Porcy”. Miss “Dina” gave Eileen (Podracky). “Maggie” (Eileen’s horse) had to stay home because she decided she could get out of the trailer with the butt bar still in place - enough said. When Eileen got back she said "Boyd I have a lot of respect for you and the way you take care of the people and the horses you sell. And “Dina” is second choice if “Gally” ends up a bad fit for her new owner. But if you give “Dina”, this treasure away I will put my boot so far up “somewhere” you will have the taste of leather in your mouth for a week". Once he settled down and concentrated on gaiting, “Rebel” gave a newbie a ride as well as an evening ride to Dixie because “Teeva” came up lame.

So if you can not tell by now these horses are my life, my love, my passion and my soul. And I am so proud that they touch the souls of everyone that stretches their leg across their back.

Now back to “Gally”, the grand prize. The first ticket drawn was owned by Sally Fuller; her agent was asked to get her on the phone to make sure she wanted her prize. Sally graciously accepted second prize and allowed another name to be drawn. The second name drawn was a fellow by the name of Danny. Now for a little background:. He and his girlfriend were one of the first to greet me when I got there Friday night after 9pm. His first words were "So is that “Gally” my new horse?", followed by an immediate and stern "You are not bringing home a horse" from his girlfriend. Each time we met up until the drawing he would comment on how he wanted to win Miss “Gally”, followed by a firm "No you are not" from his girlfriend. So when his name was drawn he jumped up as happy as a child that just saw a new bike under the Christmas tree. But there was equal disappointment from his girlfriend as she dropped her head into her hands. Danny quickly grabbed his helmet, mounted his new partner, took some photos, and off down the trail he went. As he came back into the campgrounds several hours later there was not a soul around that did not know Miss ”Gally” was his treasure for the day to take home!

As Su and I were walking through the grounds we happened upon a tearful girlfriend that said. " It just dawned upon me why Danny won his dream today. Two weeks ago I asked him with all of my love if my parents could move in with them. Without hesitation he said, “Of course - I would have it no other way”. So I guess today is his reward.

In all aspects this benefit ride was a bust with only 29 riders, with food and gifts purchased for 300. But in my eyes for a moment for several individuals our great PASO FINOS made this life we live complete.

Pam Borst was in Love with Gally, and she purchased over $100 worth of items to get extra tickets to win her. She won third prize - a beautiful western headstall. My next mission is to get her a Paso of her own; but free is all she is allowed at the moment. I hope to let her keep one until it is sold.

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July 2006 ~ Yellow River Trail Ride
by Gwyn Wright on behalf of Boyd Russell

Many thanks to Bailey and all of the Paso people that came out to support this event and show how important the Yellow River trails are. As I am terrible with names, I know I will forget a few folks that were there. Eileen Podracky, Ed and Suzy Varner, Gail Guthrie, Dean and Carol Burns, Gary(?) and his wife, Cecilia Harris and her husband (by the time they showed up I was “chained” to the grill); some others may have snuck in and out without me knowing about them as well.

The weather was bright and sunny and as you can imagine, it was HOT! Nevertheless, we had a great time and met some wonderful horse people and Paso people.

We cooked over 120 hamburgers and hot dogs and had plenty for all to eat. There was quite a bit of “horsy info” for all soak up and learn. Eileen took “Maggie” out for a few solo rides and was just giddy about her wonderful new life with her horse. All of my horses were acting like the world was coming to an end as Noche refused to be caught (never was an issue) and Porcy refused to load (again, never was an issue). Then Noche decided that the trailer was for sitting and breaking leads. We finally got loaded and to the park; tied the kids to the trailer and Noche immediately broke a third lead and later broke his halter off even with a stallion lead on. One has to wonder what they think from time to time and why. Obviously these are a few issues which need to be worked on when we get home….

I rode Noche first to make sure he would ride “ok” for Bailey; we had a momentary buck but then he settled down and rode well……….not perfect but well! As Ed, Suzy and I headed out we met-up with my wife, Su. Gary and his wife were on their way in so they turned around and rode back out with us.

We got back and cooked some lunch while the horse and biker demo took place. After lunch it was time to go down for the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the park. We put Tina up on Porcy and walked beside her. She was quite nervous but I believe she enjoyed it a little. We even let her corto into the ceremony area.

I got to hold one end of the ribbon for the cutting of the ribbon and Porcy behaved like an angel. Noche could take a few lessons about the “angel” part!

We went back to our area and since Su was tired and did not want to ride I figured “Two” (yes, a horse named “Two”) would be a much better choice for Bailey. To be honest, it was hot and I just didn't want to change saddles around.

Half way through the trail I let Bailey get on Porcy when we were on the flood plain. I had her take the lead and it wasn’t long before she was “motoring” along through the woods like a pro, grinning from ear to ear; you know the look, the “Paso Fino smile?!?!” She even turned off the ear phones to listen to and enjoy the all too familiar “tacca tacca tacca tacca”.

Ed and Suzy had so much fun that the stayed over night and rode Terrible Mill Park on Sunday! It is my hope that the trails will remain open for all horse lovers to enjoy. We need to continue our support of this effort.

P.S. GPFHA would like to wish all exhibitors at the Grand National Paso Fino Horse Show the best of luck. We hope you all have a safe journey to Perry (and back home again!).

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2006 Four Beat Jubilee is a Success!

“Thank you” to everyone who attended the GPFHA 4 Beat Jubilee and helped make it a success! Without you, it is safe to say that there would be no show! Also, a “thank you” is in order for our honorable judges: Kay Chiapetta, Ed Smith, Alice Page and Michael Cumming and our wonderful steward, Lynne Ridgeway. It was a pleasure to work with all of them!

There were so many people who worked behind the scenes. Boyd Russell, once again, out did himself with the landscaping around the judges stand. Our volunteers who set up and break down everything are many; the gate keepers, ring masters and ribbon girls (and boys) were great “sports”, rolling with the changes and making adjustments when necessary. Melanie and Ian Black, Kelly Kennett, Greg & Kim Willis, John & Shelba Merritt, Suzy Varner, Dixie & David DeLozier, Riley Kester, Jim & Arleen Klungle, Su Russell, Sharon Alfaro, Doreen Alfaro (Christafaro’s – for the dinner!) and the list goes on and on. Will Shumake was the show farrier (who turned out to be very handy with a very big grill and hamburgers!) Denton Rouse sold ALL of the class sponsorships again this year! Denise and Kelly Ireland worked as a team (tirelessly!) Kim Willis got an up close and hands-on view of the world of a show secretary as she was able to assist Denise in the office. The Association cannot thank Denise and Kelly enough for EVERYTHING they did at this show. If I have not included your name in this list, it is not because you are not appreciated. It is because there are so many to thank, I should have made a list at the show!

After the show on Saturday, GPFHA conducted its annual Paso Fino Games. This year Ray Franklin, Crissy Thompson and Jennifer Coody organized 6 different games; all with prizes! They added a bunch of games just for the kids. It was hard to tell who was having more fun; the spectators, the participants or Kelly announcing! You should see the adults trying to get on their horses bareback for the “Dollar Bill Race”! One thing is for sure, the tradition will continue into 2007. Congratulations to Ann Jarrett and Alexandra Klepak as each one took home a TV/DVD combo. Many other winners walked away with cash, horse blankets, saddle blankets, grooming kits and many other prizes.
During the show the Silent Auction and Stallion Service Auction was taking place. Marcia Davis, Denise Boorman, Cindy Griffeth, Marelyn Valdes and Shannon Johnson were all gracious enough to donate stallions for GPFHA. Many of the offspring of the stallions would be eligible for the Asheville Futurity as well as the Breeder’s Sweepstakes at the Grand National Show. Jo Franklin, Suzy Varner, Johnny Sharp, Donnie Primrose and Peggy Zimmerman are just a few who donated items for sale in the auction.

At the conclusion of the show, it was time to tally the points and name the winners of our High Point competitions. Charlie Minter with over 700 points was the High Point Open winner, going home with a check in his pocket for $1000. Cindy Griffeth took reserve with over 500 points, earning $200. For the Amateur Owner High Point, Norman Timbs won $1000 with Alexandra Klepak taking home Reserve and $200. She was also our High Point Youth, winning another $100. She had a very profitable show!
Don’t worry if you missed the fun this year. GPFHA’s 4 Beat Jubilee will be back at Chicopee Woods in May of 2007.

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GPFHA 2006 Open House

In spite of the weather, we had a good turn out for our GPFHA Open House! Thunderstorms didn’t dampen the spirits of those who wanted to come to the clinic or the fun show. We had about 15 people attend the morning clinics. The Purina nutritionist had a wonderful presentation, dispelling some feeding myths about protein and hyper horses as well as discussing calories per pound and fat content. He had a wonderful presentation full of very helpful information.

Next, Jose Ortiz hosted a clinic on training issues. As well, he spent some time answering general questions about Pasos and issues regarding behavior (or “misbehavior”!). The crowd kept him busy with question after question. Jose was able to demonstrate some of his training techniques using a gelding that one of his clients graciously allowed him to use for our Open House.

After a short break for everyone to grab a bite to eat, horses were brought out for demo rides. By this time, the weather was beginning to cooperate and we had quite a little crowd. We had a few who rode their first Paso that morning! The rides continued on into the early afternoon until it was time for the much anticipated Fun Show.

The final event was the fun show, judged by Cindy Griffeth. The Pleasure Mares class had 9 entries! Not bad for a fun show! The show lasted for about 2 hours with classes for Performance and Pleasure horses. Megan, Jose’s wife, was talked into riding the gelding they brought for the clinic. We saw many new faces, several “new” horses, made some new friends and saw some familiar faces.

Many thanks to Ray Franklin for sponsoring the event, to those GPFHA members who came to assist in the activities (especially Heidi Young with her camera to document the event!) and to EVERYONE who came out for the clinics and to support the Association.

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May 2006 ~ Paso Parelli Playday a Success!

On Saturday, May 27th we had a Parelli “Playday” with our horses. We used the Parelli Natural Horsemanship method on the ground and under saddle. We played the seven games: Friendly, Porcupine, Driving, YoYo, Circling, Sideways and Squeeze.
There were obstacles to work with such as cones, barrels to jump and squeeze thru, poles and tarps. A few of us even rode in just our rope hackamores.

All the horses seemed to enjoy our day of play along with some newcomers to Parelli. In total we had 12 horses and owners along with a few auditors that watched or lended a hand when needed. Five horses were Paso Finos, 1 Peruvian Paso, 1 National Show Horse, 1 Tennessee Walker, 2 Arabs, 1 Morgan and 1 Appaloosa.
If anyone is interested in playing at our next event or they would like more information on Natural Horsemanship please contact Anne-Marie Bilella [email protected] or Arleen Klungle [email protected].

Keeping It Natural,
Anne-Marie

All Rights Reserved. Copyright Georgia PFHA 2005-2006
Photos compliments of Georgia PFHA members.

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