February 2020

​

Hello ladies!

At the time of this writing, I am watching the pouring rain as it washes away our pastures and causes the pond to overflow. Trees have also come down on our fences. The horses and other farm animals are tucked away in the barn. But, that’s winter. I am sure that you have all experienced similar, or perhaps worse, in recent months. The good thing is that spring is just around the corner!  Ushering in spring is the ISSO Annual Gathering unmounted clinic and awards banquet.

In recent months, Shelly Liggett, our President of many years, and founder of Camp Leaping Horn, has stepped back, and I have been appointed to fulfill the remainder of her position.  Shelly has served ISSO, and sidesaddle in general, selflessly and with great enthusiasm for many years.  She will continue to be involved as the ISSO
Executive Director, but hopes to spend more time in her new Florida home, with her new grandchild!.

Many of you know me but if you do not, please look at this latest issue of Aside World for more information on me and my background.  I have served on the Board of Directors for ISSO for 7 years and have passionately promoted the sport since 2002.  It was my first ISSO
clinic (and Shelly Liggett) that introduced me to the art of riding sideways, and I have never looked back.

I hope that in the coming months, ISSO will bring opportunities for new and seasoned aside riders to learn new skills, improve on existing ones, and make lasting friendships with other ladies that think and ride sideways!  I stand ready to serve the Organization and, with the other board members, help our members achieve great things.

Please look at the details for the upcoming Annual Gathering!  We will have an action packed weekend with fun shopping, great eats, a full day and a half of aside related presentations, and an awards banquet
celebrating last year's winners.  Details are in this issue of Aside World, our web site (www.sidesaddle.com) and on our Facebook page.  I look forward to seeing you all then.

If you cannot make the Annual Gathering, please reach out to us if you are willing and able to help with Aside World submissions (articles, photos, events) or wish to volunteer at an event such as the upcoming PA Expo where ISSO will have a booth again this year.  We are also
putting together a great demo at the Expo.

Best wishes for a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year and a kicking good Spring!

Yours aside, Laureen

Laureen Bartfield, DVM CVA CVSMT