Midwest Dressage Association

December 2015

Congratulations to our 2015 Year End Award Winners!

Committees

The Board welcomes members to assist on these committees. Please contact the

Committee Chairperson.

Awards - Beth SchaubDirectory - Tom Bird

Education - Ingrid BaranskiMembership - Julie Fleming

Newsletter - Barbra ReisNominations - Valerie Dean, Jennifer

Moyne and Lisa Pinkos HowleProduct Sales - Will Davis

Professional Advisors - Valerie DeanPublic Relations and Marketing - Lisa

MachalaSponsorship - sponsorship@midwest-

dressage.orgVideo Library - Tom BirdVolunteers - Will DavisWeb Site - Barbra Reis

2015 MDA Board and Committees

Officers

PresidentWill Davis II

willdavis@aol.com

Vice PresidentIngrid Baranski

ingridbaranski@gmail.com

SecretaryTom Bird

tomkbird@hotmail.com

TreasurerLisa Pinkos Howle

mlphowle@gmail.com

Board Members

Valerie Deanbovaliefarm@yahoo.com

Julie Flemingjudgejulie33@aol.com

Denise Gentiledar-den@comcast.net

Lisa MachalaMichiganEquineTherapy@gmail.com

Jennifer Moyne - jmoyne@med.umich.edu

Beth Schaub - beschaub@frontier.com

Susan Snethkamp -kampdressage@gmail.com

MDA Newsletter Advertising Rates

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The Midwest Dressage Association is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit

December 2015 Contents1 Photos from 2015 Year End Awards Banquet3...... 2016 Election Ballot4......Recognized Show Awards6......Schooling Show Awards8......2016 Professional Grant Program11.....Feldenkrais for Riders12.....Clinic Report - George Williams14....2016 Essay Contest Information16 ...Board of Director Meeting Minutes, October 201521... Classified Ads/Stable Listings22...Calendar of Events23...2016 Membership Application

Classified Ads must be submitted to the newsletter editor via email and in Word format.

Advertisments must be submitted via email in either PDF or JPEG format.

Deadline for Advertising AND Classified ads is the 15th of the previ-ous month. All ads MUST be prepaid prior to publication.

Midwest Dressage Association OFFICIAL BALLOT

Voting Member Number: _____

There are FOUR positions open. Vote for NOT MORE THAN FOUR

���� Allison Gaughan-McNab

I began riding when I was a toddler and grew up with a passion for horses. As a youth I participated in Washtenaw

county 4-H and in high school was a member of the Manchester Equestrian Team. I rode throughout college and

that’s when I embarked in my eventing and dressage careers. I attended Washtenaw Community College where I

was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the two-year college honor society and then later earned my degree from the

University of Michigan in English Language and Literature. After graduation my parents and I began construction

of Far Gone Farm where I now teach and train full-time. I believe that by serving on the board for the MDA I will

help to educate and serve an often overlooked region of dressage riders, specifically the Washtenaw and Lenawee

county areas. I firmly believe that my writing and communication skills will be a tremendous asset. I represent an

important and burgeoning dressage community in Southeastern Michigan.

���� Tonya Grant

I have been involved in dressage since I was a child growing up with my dad Chuck Grant and my mom Carole

Grant. I won the 2008 USEF Silver Stirrup award for Grand Prix and I-2 Champion and was ranked 4th nationally

with the USDF riding the Dutch stallion Kevekko. In 2009, Kevekko and I won the Grand Prix at the Winter

Equestrian Festival Classic in Wellington, Florida. I have been actively involved in promoting the future of our

sport by developing a Dressage Pony program. I worked with Kevin Bradbury at the Waterloo Hunt Club to

supporting the Dressage Pony Cup Program. I have been following my father’s footsteps in training young horses.

I actively believe in bringing dressage education to everyone.

���� Shawn Ozker-Ragsdale

I have been involved in dressage for 45 years. I began my career at Bloomfield Open Hunt which lasted for 20

years and am currently training in the Oxford- Metamora area. I also offer clinics in Michigan and the tri-state

area. I have my USDF Bronze, Silver and 50% of my Gold Medal, all of which were earned on horses that I

trained. I recently organized the “Dressage at Devon” outing for the MDA and I regularly attend MDA board

meetings.

���� Barbra Reis

I have been riding since the age of five, and after participating in hunters and eventing, found dressage to be my

forte. I have a Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies from Cententary College in NJ and a British Horse Society

Assistant Instructor certification from Porlock Vale Equestrian Centre in England. I have my USDF Bronze and

Silver Medals and showed Intermediate I in 2015. My husband and I own Brilliant Reflection Farm in Ortonville, a

dressage boarding and training facility. I have been involved with the MDA for over 15 years, having served on the

board for several terms and most recently taking over the MDA website and newsletter.

� Write-In ___________________________________

Mail to Julie Fleming at 9480 Grand River Rd. Fowlerville, MI. 48836. All ballots MUST BE

RECEIVED by Julie before the annual meeting on January 17, 2016 or bring to annual meeting on

January 17, 2016 at Cranberries in Goodrich, MI at 4:00 pm.

Midwest Dressage Association 2015 Year-End Awards

Recognized Shows (* indicates Certificate of Merit)

TRAINING LEVEL OPEN Champion Zoe Roy CF Double Dare 75.117 * Reserve Zoe Roy Full Moon Rising Duke 68.863 * TRAINING LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR Champion Jennifer Clooten Knight Rider CRA 68.951 *

Reserve Marcia Reihl Full Moon Rising Cuervo Gold 68.939 *

Third Valarie Boatman MSU Supersticious 68.636 * Fourth Karen Shepherd Princessa KG 68.030 * Fifth Stephanie Wangler Liebchen HH 67.273 * Sixth Bonnie Gorichan Zamara 65.408 * Seventh Jamie Eckert St. Dartagnon 64.703 * FIRST LEVEL OPEN Champion Janelle Deisig Xander van de Tippe 70.588 * Reserve Kathleen Marquardt Chulo EE 69.605 * Third Stephanie Moseby Incognito 67.255 * Fourth Zoe Roy Full Moon Rising Duke 67.108 * FIRST LEVEL JUNIOR/YOUNG RIDER Champion Emilly Ashworth Blazon White Sox 65.926 * FIRST LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR

Champion Jennifer Clooten Knight Rider CRA 67.304 * Reserve Shannon Dempich Paprika 63.628 * Third Ami Aiuto Tesoro 63.444 * Fourth Linda Currier Top Hat Fiduciary 62.688 SECOND LEVEL OPEN Champion Jill Berryman Celestina HP 68.366 * Reserve Jessie Myers Sterling 66.158 * Third Leah Yurasek De Luxe Edition 65.729 * Fourth Janelle Deisig Xander van de Tippe 64.919 * Fifth Kimberly Robbins RVF G Force+ 64.837 * Sixth Jennifer Glass Cabochon 62.195 *

SECOND LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR Champion Crystal Hagan Halston 68.171 * Reserve Dianne Pulles Secret Agent 68.061 * Third Hilary Clayton Donzi MC 66.607 * Fourth Jennifer Maull Danielle 61.870 * Fifth Ingrid Grossberg Jazzebelle G 61.748 * Sixth Stephanie Likens Entegrity Bey++/ 61.399 Seventh Shannon Dempich Paprika 59.231 THIRD LEVEL OPEN Champion Carrie Wilson Bella Notte 68.671 * Reserve Janelle Deisig H. S. Rockefeller 65.855 * THIRD LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR Champion Janell Scherbarth Alegria 63.846 * Reserve Denise Gentile Citizen Caine 62.479 * FOURTH LEVEL OPEN Champion Kimberly Robbins Memoire 67.148 * PRIX ST GEORGE OPEN Champion Jessie Myers HPB Wradish 65.044 * PRIX ST GEORGE ADULT AMATEUR Champion Michelle Conrad Polensio 65.526 * INTERMEDIATE I OPEN Champion Ruth Hill-Schorsch Allegro 65.614 * Reserve Barbra Reis Legal Majority 60.561 FREESTYLE TRAINING THROUGH FOURTH LEVEL OPEN Champion Jennifer Maull Danielle 68.562 * Reserve Valarie Boatman MSU Supersticious 65.111 *

For photos of all our winners, go to the Midwest Dressage

Association Facebook Page or the website.

Midwest Dressage Association 2015 Year-End Awards

Schooling Shows (* indicates Certificate of Recognition)

INTRODUCTORY LEVEL OPEN Champion Joan Henning Angel Leggs 65.833 * INTRODUCTORY LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR Champion Amy Miljour Falcon Ace 70.917 * INTRODUCTORY LEVEL -JR./YG. RIDER

Champion Erika Laura Schultz MSU Dream Flight 63.333 *

TRAINING LEVEL NOVICE RIDER Champion Gail Myr Full Moon Rising Duke 63.627 * Reserve Katie Allen Java 62.243 TRAINING LEVEL OPEN Champion Alison Allen Curious George 70.629 *

Reserve Bonni Hazan Meadow Lark Trust 69.680 *

Third Pam Nixon Frieda 68.182 * TRAINING LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR Champion Kim Nobel Extra Blazin Lad 76.877 * Reserve Jennifer Moyne Ephraim 71.153 * Third Marcia Riehl Full Moon Rising Cuervo Gold 68.287 * Fourth Jamie Eckert St. Dartagnon 67.273 * Fifth Lindsey McErlane Geoffrey 66.859 * Sixth Amy Hanney Cheri Lynn Rose CEH 59.693 Seventh Michele Wiacek Ritzy Business 59.282 TRAINING LEVEL JUNIOR/YOUNG RIDER Champion Kaela McFadden Regis 58.550 Reserve Grace Grelak Cinderella 58.470 FIRST LEVEL OPEN Champion Pam Nixon Frieda 66.028 * FIRST LEVEL JUNIOR/YOUNG RIDER Champion Erin Boensch Lords Country Legacy 58.373

FIRST LEVEL ADULT AMATEUR Champion Jill Heincelman Goliath 65.640 * Reserve Sally Baker Quirks & Foibles 63.387 * Third Linda Currier Top Hat Fiduciary 62.270 * SECOND LEVEL OPEN Champion Camilla Demery CBMF Coming Attraction 65.528 *

Midwest Dressage Association Professionals Grant Program

This Grant program has been established to assist those who are professional members of the Mid-west Dressage Association meeting the following requirements in furthering their education in the following area’s teaching, training, and judging.

The MDA board of directors shall set aside from the general fund the sum of $1,500.00 (three grants of $500.00 each) at the beginning of each calendar year for the sole purpose of being awarded in the form of Qualified Grant Money to those applicants meeting the following requirements:

A minimum of 2 years consecutive membership (in good standing) with the MDA

4 hours of volunteer time documented with the MDA with in the 12 months preceding the filing of a grant application

A letter of recommendation from one student

A letter of recommendation from a professional horseperson - (Trainer, Instructor or Judge)

Approved educational opportunities would include the following:

All clinics, seminars, and educational programs offered and or sponsored by the following Midwest Dressage Association, the United States Dressage Federation, United States Equestrian Federation. And those educational opportunities brought before and approved by the MDA Board of directors on a case by case basis.

Maximum grant to be awarded to any one person shall be limited to $500.00 * Board may approve any grant request for less then the applied for amount.

No one person can receive more then one grant per calendar year.

Should said recipient fail to attend specified event all grant moneys are to be refunded to MDA within 30 days after the date said event.

Additional funds may be placed and/or added to the Professional Grant Fund through donations, fund raisers, etc.

• Terms & Conditions subject to change on an annual basis.

Midwest Dressage Professional Grant Work Sheet Applicant Name:______________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________________________ City: _________________________State:__________ Zip:________ Phone #_____________________ E-Mail:_________________________ Membership Years:________________________________________________________ Volunteer Hours:_________ Event: ____________________ Date:________________ A letter of Recommendation from Student Students contact information Name _____________________________ Contact # __________________________ A letter of recommendation from a professional Horseperson (Trainer- Instructor or Judge) Sponsors Name: ____________________________________________ Contact #: _________________________________________________ Event Date:______________________________________________________________ Event Location:___________________________________________________________ Please describe the educational event: How does this event help you achieve your riding goals? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

All requests should be filed 60 days prior to the event date, to ensure the MDA Board has time to review requests. Thank you.

Please Mail completed work sheets / requests to: Will Davis II 9518 Brookway Ct. Goodrich, MI 48438 Contact # 810 287 2011

“Riders who spend most of their day with their body in some other position (such as seated at a computer) are actually spending the majority of their time training their body for a posture and usage which may not be constructive to the desired performance in the saddle.” from Dressage Today: Rider Fitness Tip of the Month: Improve Your Dressage Seat, Stabilize Your Pelvis.

“Coordination of aids involves what is termed ‘a dancer’s isolations’. This refers to the ability to move any part of the body, however minor, without moving another part, or to move combinations of body parts parts at will without interference from body parts that should be quiet.” from BioMechanical Riding, Dressage, a Rider’s Atlas”, Nancy Nicholson, PhD

“The Feldenkrais Method works by improving the body’s underlying neuromotor and skeletal organization…By engaging the brain’s plasticity, or ability to change, Feldenkrais gives us an opportunity to change even our most engrained habits of posture and movement.” from David Zemach-Bersin, Feldenkrais Institute of New York, Feldenkrais Professional Training Programs

Enhance your ability to reduce muscular tension, alter your self-use and improve your physical organization in the saddle.

Offering workshops using AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT lessons selected with the rider in mind, at your location or mine. I work with riders whose concerns range from recovery from injury to peak performance. See my website Movement, Learning, Life! for more information (movementlearninglife.com), email me @ mldyker@gmail.com or call 248.842.1195. In addition I have ongoing classes for the rider at a number of locations. Available for ‘drop in’ for you to experience.

Co-taught by Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioners:

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Dale Jensenwww.michiganfeldenkrais.comdale@ michiganfeldenkrais.com

“I recommend Feldenkrais for any rider”Heather Blitz, 2011 Pan American Games, Team Gold &

Individual Silver Medalist

Feldenkrais For Riders

What happens in an AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT lesson

“In order to take advantage of your body’s extraordinary ability to improve itself through sensory motor learning, you must give your brain an opportunity to detect and reduce the unnecessary, counterproduc-tive muscular effort in your body. Research in neurophysiology has shown that when we exert a lot of muscular effort, it is impossible for our brain to make the sensory distinctions needed to improve our neuromuscular organization. That is why conventional exercise, with its reliance on muscular effort, force and speed, actually restricts your brain’s ability to work on your body’s behalf. When we use minimal muscular effort, our brain is free to make important sensory distinctions.

For example: if you hold a heavy object, you have to exert a considerable amount of muscular effort. If a fly lands on top of the heavy object as you’re holding it, you cannot feel the very slight increase in weight. This is because the muscular effort in your body is making it impossible for your brain to per-ceive the change of difference in weight. But if you hold something that is very light, like a feather, you can easily feel the increase in weight because your brain is free to sense even the slightest difference or change.

Awareness Through Movement (ATM) lessons apply the powerful neurological rule: less muscular ef-fort produces more sensory motor learning and physical improvement. ATM lessons involve slow, easy movement that activate your brain’s movement centers and generate a flow of valuable information between your brain and your muscles. Automatically, as if by magic, tension, strain, fatigue and discom-fort will disappear as your neuromuscular system reprograms itself for better health.” Reprinted from “Relaxercise” based on the acclaimed work of Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, by David Zemach-Bersin, et al

“The Feldenkrais Method helps people to move more easily, reduce tension and pain and increase their awareness of themselves in any activity. It accomplishes this through the use of gentle movement les-sons coupled with directed awareness. It is about the process of learning to develop your ability to self-regulate and adjust from moment to moment. Because a horse responds to the information from the rider’s seat, leg and hands, the rider must learn how to be more focused and precise. This work address-es nearly every movement function or difficulty a rider can imagine. Yet these lessons are all designed around the same basic principle—to provide essential information to the brain or nervous system in order to move more easily…Many riders suffer problems of balance, pain or stiffness in their hands and feet, which the Feldenkrais Method can address directly. By becoming more sensitive and aware of your patterns, you can reduce tension and improve the accuracy of your aids. Your horse will feel better and be more likely to cooperate. When you run into new challenges, your heightened self-knowledge will help you solve them.”

Taken from “Riding With the Whole Self” by Paris Kern, Certified Feldenkrais Teacher, September 2007 issue of Dressage Today

DRESSAGE CLINICS -- AND GEORGE WILLIAMS AT SOUTH VIEW FARM

By MDA reporter Jan Macafee Tongue in cheek, Sandy Tull can do a little name dropping when it comes to attracting clinicians. Lilo Fore and George Williams, Debbie Bowman and Catherine Haddad. They are a part of the on-going list of high achievers Sandy and husband Francis Tull have had at their South View Farm, Mount Morris, Mi. Along with her own training, showing and boarding enterprise, Sandy has managed to make a niche business with top notch clinicians, some coming back for repeat performances. And more are planned.

The hope is to step up the numbers and have more clinics each year. “We have to keep this delicate bal-ance,” Sandy explained. “We want to offer as many interesting experts as possible, yet not so many that people can’t afford to keep coming.”

South View is the perfect place to invite a clinician who is likely to attract a big audience. The arena is full size, and the manicured grounds are spacious, with plenty of parking for spectators and riders alike. There are always stalls available and Sandy and Francis are gracious hosts to visitors, including gener-ous lunches for riders and paying auditors.

George Williams, whose claim to fame includes being the current president of the USDF, was back Nov. 10 and 11, with a full schedule both days. Horse and rider combinations there to learn, went from four year olds to Intermediate 11. There was a 19 hand draft horse whose rider, MDA member Ami Aiuto lit-erally needed a ladder to mount. We expected the earth to shake when he started moving, but not so. He had a light way of going that was cause for amazement. Just as some big, fat men can be light ballroom dancers, this massive horse was able to collect and barely touch the ground at trot and canter. Then came a Hafflinger stallion with a businesslike attitude and an exuberant flaxen mane requiring multiple long braids reaching well beyond the shoulder to keep it tamed. Williams met all with the same easy grace

Typical of his quiet tenacity, was dealing with an otherwise obedient horse who had an unprovoked habit of reefing the reins from the rider. William’s approach was to keep it simple and clear to the horse, repeating the instructions. “Take him back to the walk, ask for canter. If he trots, throws his haunches or head, back to the walk again.” The line he used on a couple of occasions “if it takes one hundred times, it takes one hundred times. Let’s ask again.” No roughness, forever patient, he had the rider keep that horse on the same lead for a full half hour. Détente was reached.

Asked about his position with the USDF, and what it involves, Williams says he sees his role mostly as a facilitator. The structure is already in place. Meetings of the board members are approximately once a month, with a annual gathering at the finals.

“I see my role a helping to plan big-picture projects. Things in the future for instance like FEI level instructor certification,” Williams explained. “I’m not involved in all the details. I look for the right op-portunity to move the ideas being discussed, forward. Timing is everything It takes a long time to make changes, to get everyone on the same page. Patience is a prime ingredient.” William’s qualities of tact and approachability would have to help.

Williams, with a back ground as head rider at Temple Farms, knows a lot about training horses. When he left there and entered the world of open dressage competition, he was very successful with the Grand

Classified ads are one of the many “perks” of MDA membership. As a member you can run an ad (60 words or less) in our newslet-ter and website for FREE! An ad will run for two issues and then, if you’d like, you can run another ad!

We hope that MDA classified ads will help our members sell horses, tack, apparel, and trailers. And that ads will also help train-ers find more students and barns to fill more stalls. You can also use ads to help you find something you’ve been searching for– such as the perfect horse to buy or lease or a specific type of used saddle.

Prix mare Rocher. “ I think the highlight of my career was competing with the US team in Aachen for the World Cup,” Williams said, still looking as lean and athletic as he ever did. “It was a heady, exciting time I will never forget.” He hasn’t been in the show ring for over a year and no longer feels compelled to compete. “I’m not saying I will never do so again, but I do know it won’t be with the same intensity as it was in the past.”

At the recent dressage finals in Kentucky, Williams took special delight in his USDF role that allowed him to personally hand awards to winners and place-getters. “What a joy it was,” Williams said. “Those riders were so happy to be there, so full of feeling when they achieved recognition. I loved being on the giving end of that.”

Lest you think such a guy might be all tough and intimidating, this; we caught him patting a horse’s head at the end of a lesson and observing with respect, “they are such amazing creatures,” They are -- but nice somehow to hear an expert maintain his sense of wonder..

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MIDWEST DRESSAGE ASSOCIATION ESSAY CONTEST

This essay contest is open to all current MDA members.

One $50.00 cash prize will be awarded to one winner in each of the

following categories.

Jr./Young rider Adult Amateurs Professional Members

All submitted essays will be published in the MDA Newsletter.

Winners will be announced and awarded at the 2016 MDA Awards Banquet.

Essay Guidelines: Submissions may be made Dec 1- 2015 through Nov 1, 2016

Essay Topic:

How Has Your Relationship with Horses Shaped Your Life?

Judging Criteria: Originality, Creativity, Correct use of language, vocabulary, structure and spelling.

Appropriateness to essay topic

The Judge: Is an established horse person who has worked with a broad range of ages, types and

styles of horses, but has been mainly concentrated in the world of Dressage. In addition to being highly respected in the dressage community, they are well spoken

and well written.

Submitting an Essay: you may E-mail to Barb Reis at blondmane@yahoo.com

or mail a hard copy to Barb Reis

490 Rissman Lane Ortonville, MI. 48462

Judges

• Edgar Hotz Judges Fund

• Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund

• Trip Harting Fund

Breeders

• Elysium Farm Fund for U.S. Breeder Excellence

HigH Performance Teams

• Carol Lavell Advanced Dressage Prize

• Patsy Albers Award

educaTional evenTs

• Continuing Education for Instructors Fund

• Dancing Horse Fund

• Edgar Hotz Judges Fund

• Michael Poulin Dressage Fund

• Sally Swift Memorial Fund

• Violet Hopkins Fund

adulT amaTeurs

• Gifted Memorial Fund

• Heldenberg Training Center Fund

YouTH

• Carolyn Van Cise Fund

• Heldenberg Training Center Fund

• Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund

• Trip Harting Fund

• Young Rider International Dream Program

insTrucTors

• Captain Jack Fritz Young Professionals Grants

• Continuing Education for Instructors Fund

• Karen Skvarla Fund • Major Anders Lindgren

Scholarships

• Renee Isler Dressage Support Fund

• Trip Harting Fund

• USDF Region 9 Teaching Excellence Award

SInCE 1989, donors to

The Dressage Foundation

have generously provided

funds to create a better

dressage community…

for you.

Each year grants and

scholarships are awarded

to riders of all ages and

levels, instructors, judges,

breeders, and non-profit

organizations. Could you

be our next grant recipient?

TDF – Your Source for Support

Phot

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edit:

Ron

Ber

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oto

cred

it: Je

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Visit www.dressagefoundation.org to learn about the opportunities that are currently available:

TDF General Sheet.indd 1 1/15/15 9:43 AM

MINUTES OF THE MIDWEST DRESSAGE ASSOCIATION BOARDOctober 7, 2015 6:30 PM

Held at White Horse RestaurantMetamora, Michigan

Board members in attendance: Vice-Chair Ingrid Baranski, Tom Bird, Sue Snethkamp, Denise Gen-tile, Lisa Machala, Beth Schaub and Lisa Howle

Guests: Jan Nierzwik, Barb Reis, Jayne Bailey

The meeting was called to order by the Vice-Chair at 6:30 PM

Comments from the Chair: Noting that there had been concerns raised about the use of MDA Bucks for a number of MDA activities and how these are accounted for by the MDA. Motion by Lisa Machala that the discussion about the MDA by-laws and issuance and accounting for MDA Bucks be tabled. Seconded by Sue Snethkamp. Approved by voice vote.

Secretary’s Report: Tom Bird presented the min-utes from the September 2, 2015 board meeting. Copies of the minutes were previously emailed to the board for their review and comment. One correction was requested: adding the emailing of the Treasurers profit/loss statement for September to the Board. Motion by Lisa Machala that the September 2, 2015 minutes be approved with cor-rections. Seconded by Beth Schaub. Approved by voice vote.

Treasurer’s Report: Lisa Howle reported on the financial statements for the month of September showing a check book balance of $15,862.13, a CD savings account of $6,684 and a regular savings account of $5,000. She noted that the names on the two savings accounts will need to be changed to reflect the new officers as these accounts were not transferred at the same time as the checking account. There two accounts are not part of the Quick Books balance sheets. Lastly, tax form 990 will be filed by our CPA who is also monitoring

and providing an overview of the books. Motion by Tom Bird to accept the September 2015 finan-cial report. Seconded by Beth Schaub. Approved by voice vote.

Committee Reports:

Memberships: Lisa Howle stated that there was no report from Julie Fleming, and there are no chang-es to the membership with 132 Amateur/Owners, 37 Juniors, 81 Professional and 2 Life members for a total of 252. There was discussion about changes to the on-line membership form and if it was practical to incorporate the PayPay option. It was pointed out that coordination signature software and the PayPay confirmation as part of an on-line process is more complicated than anticipated. Mo-tion by Tom Bird that the issue of the membership form and the use of PayPal be tabled to a future meeting. Seconded by Lisa Machala. Approved by voice vote.

Education: Ingrid Baranski stated that the freestyle clinic still has some space available for riders and auditors. Lisa Machala said that she would prepare a packet for the auditors. The audio system will be set up on Friday.

Executive Committee: no report

Product Sales: no report

Marketing and Promotions: Kalmbach Feeds, the maker of Tribute feeds, has been unresponsive to numerous inquires about the account status. We are continuing to collect feed bag labels and will not be submitted until we have a reply from Kalm-bach.

Annual Meeting: Denise Gentile reported that she has been working with Addison Oaks Confer-ence Center on setting up the awards banquet. The doors will be open at 11:30 . Sydney Collier, the guest speaker is confirmed. There will be 10 persons per table. Barb Reis said that she could provide a thumb drive with photographs for the slide show that would run as background. Barb

Reis also said that she could prepare the handout program and there was discussion about lead time and sponsorships. The deadline for program ads would be November 12 for the November 22 ban-quet. Denise Gentile stated that she needed a final head count by November 12 and that the reserva-tion form would be included on the website, Face-book and in the newsletter. There was discussion about the year end reports that have, in the past, been presented at the annual meeting when it was held in January. These reports will be due in De-cember and will be included in the newsletter. The ballots for the board of directors and by-law issues can be included as part of the program, although the results will not be official until the end of the year. Motion by Lisa Machala that the current board of directors be available to the membership at the Annual Meeting banquet and that ballots for voting on the 2016 board of directors be extended through late December 2015 when the votes will be tallied and winners announced by December 31, 2015. Seconded by Ingrid Baranski. Approved by voice vote.

Professional Advisors: Motion by Lisa Machala that discussion of the professional advisors activi-ties be tabled to the November 4, 2015 meeting. Seconded by Tom Bird. Approved by voice vote.

Nominations: Lisa Howle stated this will be part of the banquet and ballots will be available to the members.

Scholarship: no report Awards: Beth Schaub said that she would pick up the trophy awards that are in East Lansing and that there are currently 17 riders that have submit-ted for awards and more submissions are being received daily. She said that reminders should be posted on Facebook calling for award submissions from the membership. There was discussion about the other awards (Jean Brown, Hall of Fame, Vi Hopkins, etc.). Motion by Tom Bird that consider-ation of these awards be tabled to the November 5, 2015 meeting. Seconded by Lisa Machala. Ap-proved by voice vote.

Historian: no report

Directory: no report

Newsletter: Barb Reis reported that the October newsletter was sent out on October 1st and that she used a different printing company that could both print, process and mail the 20 page newsletter. The printing company has a bulk mail permit that allows for continued use of the MDA non-profit mailing status without the MDA renewing it’s non-profit annual permit. There were additional costs involved with folding, tabbing and delivery to the post office in addition to the cost of postage. This one stop process significantly reduces the process-ing time for the newsletter.

Volunteers: no report

Video Library: no report.

Website: Barb Reis commented that website con-cerns were addressed in the membership discus-sion.

Old Business: There was discussion about D and O insurance coverage to be purchased for the MDA Board and that while events are covered with individual riders, there is not coverage for individual board members, coverage that is typi-cally used non-profit boards. An estimate of this coverage would be about $800. Motion by Lisa Machala that a Board of Directors insurance policy be purchased. Seconded by Lisa Howle. There was discussion that quotes and terms should be secured for this type of policy, through our current inde-pendent agent, so they can be compared. Motion by Lisa Machala amending her previous motion that D and O insurance policy be purchased for Board of Directors by our independent agent as soon as possible. Seconded by Lisa Howle. Ap-proved by voice vote.

New Business: Sue Snethkamp announced that he sister JoAnn Parker has created an annual award in honor of her late dressage mount Sonet a Polish warmblood who lived to the age of 37. Holding a

special place in her heart, Sonet allowed Mrs. Park-er to train through Grand Prix, a life saving experi-ence. The annual award will be $200 to be used to further the dressage education of the recipient by supporting lessons, attending clinics or showing. The recipient must be an adult/amateur with the highest average score, First through Fourth Level at schooling or recognized shows. Criteria for this award will be published.

The next meeting of the MDA Board was approved for Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at 6:30 PM at the Anne McPhees Restaurant in Ortonville. Motion by Tom Bird to Adjourn. Sec-onded by Lisa Machala. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm.

Respectfully Submitted,Tom Bird, MDA Secretary

Treat Your Favorite Horse or Rider to Therapeutic Bodywork

Private Client Sessions Professional Trainer/ Barn Programs (great discounts)

Prepaid Massage Programs (great discounts) Equine Massage for Horse Owners (Workshops)

Reiki Natural Stress Reduction for Self and Others (Workshops) Horse & Rider Wellness Clinics

Client Referral Rewards Program Health & Wellness products for you and your animals Gift Certificates Available for Workshops or Sessions!

MDA members receive 10% discount on services! Call or Text Lisa @ 248.282.4065

Visit www.MichiganEquineTherapy.com for program details Perfecting Comfort and Performance for Horse & Rider Since 2004

Licensed, Certified, Insured

Perfecting Comfort and Performance for Horse & Rider Since 2004 Licensed, Certified, Insured

12/2015

ATTENTION MDA Members!

The issuance andredemption of MDA Bucks have been suspended as of

11/4/2015. The MDA Board will be

publishing full details once a complete review and

investigation has been completed.

We appologize for any inconvenience.

MDA Member2 issues - FREE 60 words or less:

$10.00 60- 80 words

Non-member/ per 2 issues $20.00:

60 words or less Free member ads will run for

two issues only. One free ad per member at a time.

Submit Ad and payment by 15th of the month.

Website posting included.

Free Stable Listings: include contact info, city and three

lines. Ads subject to editing.

Newsletter/Website Editor: Barbra Reis

blondmane@gmail..com or 248-670-9031

Check payable to MDA and send to:

Barbra Reis, 490 Rissman Lane, Ortonville, MI 48462

Classified Ads

Horses for Sale or Lease

½ lease available at Thistle Hill in South Lyon. Gabby is a beautiful American Spotted Draft. She is quiet enough for an advanced be-ginner, but talented enough to be interesting for a rider who is further along. Terms of the lease are negotiable, but must include regular lessons. Contact Jennifer Glass, certified Ride With Your Mind instructor for more information, mythistle-hill@gmail.com or 734 218-1314. (1/16)

Several horses available for on-site lease - Training Level or Second/Third Level schoolmasters. Available for partial for full leases. One lesson per week included in the lease with Barbra Reis, USDF Bronze & Silver Medalist. For more informa-tion call/text 248-670-9031 or email blondmane@yahoo.com. (1/16)Tack for Sale

Adjustable tree, black leather dressage SADDLE w/fit-tings. Originally for wide/flat-backed Lippizaner. Cut back pommel, 17 1/2” seat, like new. $1,600. Enclosed, stand-up wood TACK BOX on casters. 6’3” tall, 37” x 50”. 2 saddle racks, 4 shelves, many hooks. $200. Beth Kuhn. 517-546-6728. (1/16)

Albion K2 Legend saddle, 17” seat, 335 (xtra wide) tree, excellent condition, $1500. Also new Red Barn double bridle, cob size, $175, barely used 24”Albion girth. $75. Barb Reis, 248-670-9031. (1/16)

Instruction and Training

Your Ad Here!

Stable Listings

Brilliant Reflection FarmBrian & Barbra Reis490 Rissman LaneOrtonville, MI 48462248-670-9031www.brilliantreflectionfarm.comLessons, Boarding, Rehab for equine, Schooling Shows, Turnout, Indoor/Outdoor arenas.

Deisig DressageJanelle Deisig7330 E. Curtis RoadFrankenmuth, MI 48734989-598-6850Janelledeisig@yahoo.comwww.deisigdressage.comDressage training, sales, trailer in lessons

Far Gone FarmAllison Gaughan-McNab923 Sharon Hollow RoadManchester, MI 481589734-276-8967fgfsporthorses@yahoo.comBoarding, Lessons Training, Breed-ing, Sales

Lone Willow FarmsIngrid Baranski5781 Hessen RoadCasco, MI 48064586-306-6275www.lonewillowfarms.net

Reflection ArabiansJim & Nancy Lapeer3332 Lake George RoadDryden, MI

Sky High Farm1759 Smith RoadLapeer, MI. 48446248-890-2426jenmaull@yahoo.comhttp://skyhighfarm.vpweb.com. Boarding & Dressage Training

Southview FarmSandra Tull8023 N. Center RoadMt Morris, MI 48458810-397-0387sandytulldressage.comDressage training, Coaching at shows, Sales,Trailer in welcome Will travel for lessons, Hosting clinics with Internationally known clinicians

SummerwoodTeah Weyers Bankes3589 Fenton RoadHartland, MI 48353248-887-3819 or 248-408-7842. Training - GP dressage. Work with pony clubbers.

Visual Equestrian LLCTonya & Carole Grant5390 Pleasant Hill drive Fenton, Michigan 48430248-219-0410Dressage training, Sale horses and ponies, Pony program, Clinics Trailer in lessons welcome

Will Davis Training Center @Rattlewood FarmsOxford, MI 810-387-2011Boarding, Training, Lessons, Clin-ics with international trainers, home to MidMichigan Dressage shows

Help Wanted

Your Ad Here!

December 2015

2 - MDA Board of Directors Meeting, 6:30pm at the Highland House, 2360 E. Highland Road, Highland, MI. Contact Will Davis for more information at 810-287-2011

January 201617 - MDA Annal Meeting, Cranberries Cafe, Goodrich, MI. Starts at 4pm. Contact Will Davis at 810-287-2011 for more information.21 - MDA Movie night at Deisig Dressage in Frankenmuth, MI. Free to Members, pizza and refreshments. Starts at 7:00pm. RSVP to Janelle at 989-598-6850 or Janelledeisig@yahoo.com.

February 201625 - MDA Movie night at Brilliant Reflection Farm in Ortonville, MI Free to Members, pizza and refreshments. Starts at 7:00pm. RSVP to Barb at 248-670-9031 or blondmane@yahoo.com.

April 20169 & 10 - Janet Foy “On the Levels” Symposium. More details to come! Contact Barb at 248-670-9031 or blondmane@yahoo.com to inquire about sponsorships, advertising and vendor information.

Calendar of Events

Midwest Dressage Association Membership application

December 1, 2015—November 30, 2016

Membership Information: Renewal (MDA #): New Member :

Name: Date of Birth

Farm/Business Name:

Street: City: State:

Zip: Phone: Email:

Rider Status: Open Adult Amateur Junior/Young Rider (Must be under 21 as of 12/1/2015) If a rider status is not selected, applicant will be considered as Open for all MDA purposes including year end awards. Adult Amateur status is limited to riders who meet the guidelines of USEF GR808.

Family Memberships: Only the primary member will receive monthly newsletters and yearly directories.

Name: Date of Birth

Phone: Email:

Rider Status: Open Adult Amateur Junior/Young Rider (Must be under 21 as of 12/1/2015) *********************************************************************************************************************************************************************** Name: Date of Birth

Phone: Email:

Rider Status: Open Adult Amateur Junior/Young Rider (Must be under 21 as of 12/1/2015) ***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************

I would like to be listed in the MDA Directory with the following services: Boarding Facility Training Facility Trainer (will travel) Judge Other: Member these services apply to:

I DO NOT want my information printed in the MDA Directory All Members receive a membership card and lapel pin, monthly newsletters, a yearly directory, and a group membership to Unite d States Dressage Foundation (USDF) for the membership year. The effective date of membership is the postmarked date of the application. MDA is not r es pons ible for late, delayed, or m is dir ected m ail. Pleas e allow thr ee weeks for proces s ing of MDA application and USDF group membership.

For Questions, please contact: Julie Fleming

membership@midwestdressage.org

TOTALS: Adult Am ateur/Open ($51) $ Junior ($41) $

Family Members ($21 X ) $ Non US Mailing address (add’l $15) $

I would like to donate to: (tax deductible) Please indicate amt.

Office Use Only:

PM:

AMT:

CK:

MDA Annual Awards $ MDA Educational Clinics $

Less MDA Bucks (Please Include) $

TOTAL PAID: $___________ Please make checks payable to MDA and send to Julie Fleming, 9480 W. Grand River Rd., Fowlerville, MI 48836

Midwest Dressage Association

c/o Barbra ReisBrilliant Reflection Farm490 Rissman LaneOrtonville, MI 48462

This will be your last newsletter.It’s time to renew

your MDA Membership for 2016! Fill out the application at the back of the newsletter

and send to Julie Fleming!