nemha newsletter october 2014
DESCRIPTION
Newsletter of the New England Morgan Horse Association - October 2014TRANSCRIPT
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
NEMHA News
For The Love of The Morgan Horse
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
NEMHA News
Nothing Better Than Fall In New England…
Morgan Style
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
NEMHA News
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
**2014 EQUINE AFFAIRE**
NEMHA News
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
EQUINE AFFAIRE
Eastern States Exposition West Springfield, Massachusetts
Thursday, November 13 – Sunday, November 16, 2014
~Save the Dates~
November 13-16 2014
Eastern States Exposition
Join the Morgan Magic
On
Morgan Row & The Hospitality Center
NEMHA News
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
It’s almost time for the country’s largest equine exposition, The
Massachusetts Equine Affaire. The event will run from Thursday,
November 13 through Sunday, November 16, 2014 at The Eastern States
Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. The combination of
continuous educational presentations covering every imaginable equine
discipline and interest, scores of horse and pony breed representatives, a
huge tradeshow, and the nightly Fantasia performance draws well over a
hundred thousand visitors to the yearly event.
The New England Morgan Horse Association (NEMHA) participates with an
impressive Morgan presence in order to be sure that the Morgan Horse is
front and center at this great promotional opportunity. There will be 13
horses representing Morgan versatility on Morgan Row in Barn C this year.
These horses will participate in a breed demonstration and a youth
demonstration, as well as in smaller demonstrations in the Stroh Building
Demonstration Ring and at Morgan Row. The Morgan Market Place and
Hospitality/Youth Booths can be found in the Stroh Building. Also located in
the Stroh Building is the Morgan Breed Stall.
Grand National Champion Winterset Thyme ‘N
Agin will be appearing nightly in front of a
packed house in a driving segment in the
Fantasia show.
Admission tickets are $15.00 for the day for
adults, 4 days for $50.00. Children 7-10 are
$8.00 per day and children under 6 are free.
Fantasia tickets are available online.
NEMHA News
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
The Morgan Breed Demonstration in the main Coliseum Ring is scheduled for
Saturday, November 15th at 11:15 and the Morgan Youth Demonstration is
at 12:45 at the Youth Pavilion, also on Saturday. Morgans will appear in
the Stroh Demonstration Ring on Thursday at 3:00, Friday at 4:00,
Saturday at 1:00, and on Sunday at 11:00.
Please contact Nancy Caisse at TownshendFarm or Barbara Irvine at
[email protected] if you would like to volunteer to help at this year’s
Equine Affaire.
NEMHA News
New England Morgan Horse Association November 2014
yaa
Young adult alliance
The American Morgan Horse Association Young Adult Alliance (YAA), a group of 18-40 year old amateur and
professionals working together to strengthen the Morgan breed, announced today that Joshua Noble of Rowley,
Massachusetts, has been awarded the inaugural YAA judging scholarship. The first Professional Development Project
created by this passionate group, the $1,500 scholarship is awarded to one individual aged 21-40, professional or
amateur, who is interested in attaining their Morgan R judging card."We created this scholarship to encourage young
adults to enter the Morgan judging pool, we see it as a way to provide financial support to young adults who endeavor
to give back to the Morgan breed through judging," said YAA Professional Development Committee Chair Abbie
Trexler. "We received wonderful applications in this first year, and the competition for the scholarship was very
competitive. The winner, Joshua Noble, holds a Master's Degree from Cambridge College and works as a special
education teacher and liaison at a local high school, and he also owns and operates his family's Burkland Farm. He
received a wonderful letter of recommendation from 'R' Morgan Judge, Chris Cassenti. Noble's application essay was
what stood out the most, however, and expressed his sincere desire to continue his education through judging school
and to give back to the breed through his contributions to the judging pool."Applications for the 2015 YAA Judging
School Scholarship will be accepted through August 1, 2015. To learn more about the project visit
www.morganhorse.com/programs/yaa/yaa-professional-development-project-judging-school.Above: YAA Co-Chair Steven Handy, along with YAA Executive Committee Member Amanda Hill and YAA Co-Advisor
Sara Foy, presented Noble with the scholarship on October 5. -
Way To Go, JOSH!
NEMHA News
NEMHA News
Ellen Atkinson and Pondview Aurora
recently enjoyed a beach ride at Salisbury
Beach to benefit the MSPCA. Joined by
many of their pals from Chrislar Farm,
Ellen and Aurora make us all want to saddle
up and head to the beach.
Beautiful Aurora is owned by Chrislar Farm
and Ellen has long been known as one of
Chrislar's multi-talented "kids (actually
with her recent diploma from Endicott
College she is an official "adult") but it
has been fun to watch her "grow up" in the
Morgan world. From a leadliner to multi-
titled champ, Ellen is as talented an artist
as she is a horsewoman...and of course she
is a perfect mentor for all the aspiring
youngsters who flock to Chrislar for an
exciting Morgan experience!
Ellen and Aurora...Morgan versatility at
its best!
Culver McLean and Sarde's Silhouette enjoyed
a perfect fall day of trail riding at beautiful
Goddard Park in Warwick, Rhode Island.
Culver, a champion in the hunter division since
she wore pigtails, says Silhouette is "super
brave" over fences and awesome on the trail,
making her the perfect Morgan pal. In
addition to being a talented horsewoman,
Culver is an enterprising entrepreneur as the
head of her company "2Horse Concoctions",
which features natural products for outdoor
people. Check out these great naturals on
Facebook and watch for Culver flying high over
fences next season!
Life’s a Beach…on a Morgan Horse
~75th Special Diamond Anniversary Morgan Horse Show~
Celebrating 75 years of Morgan Magic and Memories!
Tri-County Fairgrounds
Northampton, Massachusetts
!
NEMHS 2014…
Did you catch the Morgan Magic…
and make memories that will last a lifetime?
The New England Morgan Regional Horse Show’s Diamond Anniversary Celebration glittered for
six sensational days in Northampton this summer. From July 21-26 the Tri-County Fairgrounds
sparkled with world caliber Morgan horse competition. The week was the perfect blend of sharing
historic memories while making new ones. The fairgrounds hold a hard-to-describe magical
mystique as many of the breed’s greatest horses have trotted through the ingate of these
hallowed grounds. From opening the show Monday evening with in hand presentations,
competition sizzled throughout the week in center ring, the carriage course, the dressage arena,
and the jumping venue. The judges’ panel included Peggy Alderman, Terry Jones-Brennan, Phil
Fountain & Gerry Rushton for center ring classes, while Muff Seaton tied the carriage classes,
Sara Schmitt scored the dressage rides, and Anne Sibson marked the cards for the hunters and
jumpers.
The show was dedicated to Fred Nava, the charismatic, bigger-than-life, long time manager of
NEMHS, whose untimely death in 2013 saddened the entire Morgan community. Fred’s legacy of
commitment, enthusiasm, loyalty, and passion for the show has become part of the glorious
history that has defined the epitome of showing Morgan horses for 75 extraordinary years. He will
be remembered for his indomitable spirit and love of all things Morgan.
Show manager Mark Caisse and Co-Chairs Debbie Lane and Christine Nava, supported by their
dynamic show committee, ensured that the week was not only the epitome of superb competition,
but also a great time for socializing, in the inimitable NEMHS Morgan style. The welcome party
kicked off a great week of fun under the tent as well as honored the Youth Contest Winners (Katie
Howe and Nicole Bobbi were the senior champion & reserve) and NEMHA Scholarship winner,
Alexandra Galletta.
Thursday evening’s new Progressive Box Seat Party was definitely one of the social highlights of
the week with “Tradition Posters” of champions of
yester-year decorating the box seats providing a
nostalgic look back of some of the horses and people
who have defined NEMHS over its glorious 75 year
history while party goers enjoyed the best of Morgan
hospitality!
NEMHS Celebrates Glittering 75th
Anniversary Show
In celebrating over seven decades of Morgan horse show excitement, three grand old champions
graced the Northampton ring once again, reminding fans that great show horses never lose their
love for entertaining fans! Multiple NEMHS
and World Champion, Born To Boogie, brought
down the house when he and former trainers
Lynn and Kathy Peeples led the “people’s
favorite” into the ring he used to dominate.
Owner Bryna Watson was thrilled to see her
“boy” back in the limelight and it would not
be an exaggeration to say that a few tears of
joy were shed that night as Boogie stood up
and cocked his gorgeous head in the
iconic pose that defined his presence
during the years he ruled the show ring.
Rumbrook Immortal Bliss looked ready to trot
back into the showring as she and her trainer
Sheri Lampropoulos wowed the crowd with a
performance that equaled their glory days in
the show ring. The gorgeous black mare left
no doubt that she loved being back in center
ring! Manchester In Demand, the amazing
gelding who launched Michelle Quinlisk’s
equitation career, brought her back into the
ring with the steady, beautiful cadence that
made him every young rider’s dream horse.
Steve Davis and Luman Wadhams presented
UVM Jubilant who stood proudly in center ring
with two of his handsome get behind him in a “recreation” of the Sire & Get Class that was the
ultimate class for breeders “back in the day!” Awesome!
The AMHA Young Adult Alliance brought “bull riding” up close and personal as many of its
members took on the mechanical Bull, who proved challenging to all comers! Great fun and
raising money for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital combined to keep the bull busy for hours as daring
spectators also got the chance to “ride”! Great job YAA!
Casey McDonald Douglas was the lucky winner of the NEMHS Customized Golf Cart and she and
Avery are sure to be the sportiest girls in town! The Silent Auction
and Live Auctions are always successful fund raisers for the show
as well as providing Morgan fun for bidders. Many thanks to all
who consistently support the show via their donations and
purchases!
It was certainly a wonderful week for Morgan horses and their
“people”….great weather, great camaraderie, and great
competition…a time-tested formula for experiencing the Morgan
Magic of Northampton. NEMHS 2014 had it all and the show’s
Diamond Anniversary will sparkle in memories long after the last
horse leaves the fairgrounds.
NEMHS Sponsors Made It Happen!
Kudos to NEMHS Show Manager Mark Caisse
The 75th Diamond Celebration Sparkled!
NEMHS Youth Rocked At Northampton
Although the “official” competition of the show did not begin until Monday
evening, contestants in the NEMHS Youth Contest were busy all day
Monday (with lots of studying going on the night before as well) as they
competed in the four sections of Youth Contest events: Written Test;
Speech; Riding/Driving Patterns; Judging/Oral Reasons. In order to be
eligible for overall awards in each division, Walk-Trot; Junior; and Senior,
participants must compete in all four sections of the contest, which are
scored with equal consideration in computing a final tally. Awards were
presented at the Welcome Party after classes on Monday, and Katie Howe,
who has been competing in Youth Contests since her Walk-Trot days
(remember Katie when your mom said it was something you had to do if you
wanted to show in the big ring?) was the Senior Overall Winner, earning the
honor of representing NEMHS at the Youth Finals in Oklahoma City! This
year Katie transitioned all of those horsemanship skills to the “big ring” as
she and her beautiful Garland Fleur de Lis earned the tri-color in the junior
exhibitor hunter pleasure championship! Way to Go Katie!
Also honored on Monday evening, was Alexandra Galletta, the recipient of
the2014 NEMHA Scholarship. Alex, whose outstanding academic record is
equaled only by her amazing extra-curricular and community activities, is
Katie and Garland Fleur De Lis
an outstanding youth ambassador of the Morgan horse. Alex writes, “I was
fortunate enough to be chosen as the winner of the NEMHA Scholarship
and I will definitely be putting this award to good use. I am furthering my
education at Cornell University in the fall where I plan to double major in
Animal Science and Applied Economics and Management. In the future, I
would like to have a career as an equine veterinarian and I plan on staying
involved with the Morgan breed by showing my own horses, and hopefully
breeding them as well. I’m so grateful for everything the Morgan horse breed
has done for me and I
can’t wait to give back
in the future.”
Awesome, Alex!
Throughout the week
the Youth Activities
Center was busy with
tons of fun projects for
kids of all ages which
included duct tape
creations, model magic
sculptures, a Morgan
piñata, water balloons,
and of course sewing
Morgan horse head pillows that would transform into “Stick Horses” for the
Saturday morning Stick Horse class in center ring (Thanks Maggie Hood for
the great lime green Kids Club Tee Shirts!) NEMHS Kids Camp is all about
fun, creativity, and of course friendship. For some of our “kids,” New
England is the only time during the year they get to see each other, but they
forge Morgan friendships that may last a lifetime...a perfect Morgan
tradition! A special “Shout Out” to Nicole Bobbi, Chloe Deeb, Hannah
Kelley, and Jessica McGoldrick for lending helping hands! Kudos to all!
Thank you Maggie Hood of KGA Morgans for your
donation of the awesome Youth Activities Tee Shirts!
Honoring… Debbie Lane & Christine Nava
Please welcome to center ring this evening, Debbie Lane and and Christine Nava, the co-chairs of our 75th Diamond Anniversary Morgan Horse Show Celebration. Together Debbie and Christine, along with their families, represent almost a century of support and promotion of the great Morgan horse as well as unwavering dedication to this horse show. Debbie and Christine have not only been driving forces in make New England Morgan a show to remember, they have also served on the NEMHA Board of Directors and on multiple committees and held many offices in the club. Each has been named as NEMHA Person of the Year in recognition of outstanding contributions to the club and its horse show.Debbie and Christine personify the high level of professionalism and commitment to all things Morgan that are the hallmark of this great Morgan show. Throughout their tenure as members of the Horse Show Committee and as the Co-Chairs of this historic event, they have logged thousands of hours in the organization, the planning, and the day to day, minute to minute operation of NEMHS, the largest regional show in the country. Tonight, as their terms as Co-Chairs near an end, we would like to extend our thanks for their years of service and of friendship. This horse show will forever be the beneficiary of their commitment, creativity and dedication. Many thanks Debbie and Christine…we will miss you!
2014 New England Morgan Horse Show Dedication
Frederick J Nava
There is no doubt, he was bigger than life.
His passion for all things Morgan, his
dedication, dogged work ethic, tireless
energy, kind heart, and big smile were all
part of the super-sized persona that was
Fred Nava. He was outspoken when others
might tip toe around a controversial issue
and candid when some might be more
cautious. Politically correct was never part of
his vocabulary but when the going got tough
there was no one better to have in your
corner than Fred, who would, and could,
work 24/7 to ensure that all problems, both
large and small, were resolved. He was the
quintessential “go to guy” and from coast to
coast the stories of Fred “saving the day” are
legend.
From Northampton, Massachusetts to
Redmond, Oregon, with stops in Raleigh,
North Carolina and Springfield, Illinois, and of
course Oklahoma City, Oklahoma the stories
abound about the man who “married into” the
Morgan community and went on to become
one of the breed’s staunchest advocates. A
horseman since his youth, it was his
marriage to Christine (Collins) on October 2, 1992 that brought him into the fold of what he would frequently
call his “Morgan family.” Fred’s journey through Morgandom was paved with accolades as both he and the
horse shows he managed garnered regional and national awards, but for Fred, those honors were always
about the great Morgan horse and its people, the people he considered part of that amazing Morgan family.
Fred’s active role in the New England Morgan Horse Association’s Board of Directors made him a top
choice for Co- Chairman of the New England Show which at that time was managed by Dayton Sumner.
Fred respected Dayton as a horseman, leader, and teacher whose lessons paved the way for Fred’s move
into the show’s top spot upon Dayton’s death in 1997. Fred was the magician of Northampton and when
exhibitors embarked on the historic show grounds for a week of the best in showring competition, few
realized the incredible makeover that the facility had undergone in the previous weeks. Fred’s family
background in construction made him a natural to “reconstruct” the aging Northampton fairgrounds into a
magical place in time where incredible Morgan horses would come to vie for the title of NEMHS Champion.
His focus was singular: to make this horseshow (and subsequently each of the shows that he managed)
one that each and every exhibitor would long remember. When Fred stepped up to the plate as manager of
New England he hit one home run after another as his boundless energy went into improving every aspect
of the show from stabling, to grounds, to the improving the classlist, to planning exhibitor events and
fabulous parties ,to helping produce dramatic retirements, to creative fund raising, and ultimately to being a
driving force behind the long awaited construction of the three new barns, in 2011, that has forever changed
the landscape of Northampton.
In his twenty years of involvement in the Morgan world, some of Fred’s favorite memories (and he had so
many) were his awesome drives with Van Lu Magnum Force in his early years at Northampton, cheering on
Stephen’s victory passes (the one here at NEMHS was especially poignant), celebrating Christine’s first
victory pass on Equinox Bossa Nova, seamlessly “pulling off” a potentially disastrous electrical failure at the
gala retirement ceremony of World Champion HVK Courageous Flaire, being named Grand National Show
Manager, and having Stephen join him in his work at NEMHS, Far West and Grand National.
Fred’s influence in the Morgan world is recognized throughout the country, but it is here at the hallowed
fairgrounds of Northampton that the heart and soul of the man whose mission was to make the New
England Morgan Regional Horse Show the greatest show on earth are still so palpable. Fred knew every
inch of these fairgrounds like the back of his hand and labored long hours, before, during, and after the
horse show, to ensure that NEMHS would be a magical week of Morgan memories for every exhibitor,
trainer, spectator, and fan. The images of the man, still so vivid, play like a Northampton slide show: in his
iconic ballcap meeting with his crew to keep things running smoothly, on his tractor dragging the ring,
working his grader on a mud-slicked track, in rain gear bailing out barns, on his “gator” buzzing around the
grounds at all hours, or in a tux on championship nights proudly introducing NEMHS honorees.
An adoring and adored husband and father, Fred was a loyal friend, respected colleague, community
advocate, and award winning horse show manager. His spirit will live on in all of the many Morgan
activities that bear the Nava hallmark of excellence and as we “carry on” we will never forget the man who
dedicated himself so completely to the breed he loved.
The dedication of the 2014 New England Morgan Horse Show to Frederick J. Nava pays tribute to the man
whose commitment, enthusiasm, loyalty, and passion for this horse show have become part of the glorious
history that has defined the epitome of showing Morgan horses for 75 extraordinary years.
In celebrating the show’s Diamond Anniversary, we salute and remember Fred for his indomitable spirit and
love of all things Morgan and proudly add his name to the list of greats who have graced the annals of this
proud event.
Thanks for the memories, Fred. It was a great ride.
Happy Trails, my friend, ‘til we meet again.
The Young Adult Alliance Celebrates New England’s 75th in Style
The AMHA Young Adult Alliance had a very successful week at the 75th New
England Morgan Horse Show. Throughout the week, the group coordinated the
flocking of the famous Northampton flamingos around the grounds. Nearly $500 was
collected and will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. On Friday,
the group managed the newly created hospitality area showcasing their educational
videos along with a slideshow featuring their MorganHorseFamily and celebrated
the great week with a lively happy hour featuring Morgaritas. The Young Adult
Alliance also hosted bull riding at the Exhibitor’s party on Friday evening and a 50/50
Silent Auction Bull Riding Calcutta, the group saw great enthusiasm from all
attendees. Kim Germ Cramer was the top bidder on champion bull rider, Stacey
Myers and took home over $650. The Young Adult Alliance will be doing a similar
event with bull riding and a Trainer's Calcutta at the Morgan Medallion Classic
Regional Horse Show in Santa Barbra. Way to go YAA!
It’s no Bull…
these rodeo riders went for the gold!
~yaa~ !Bullish on Northampton!
AMHA
A.W. Harness Shop
Jane Bowhers
Lyn Britt
Broadmoor
Cabot Morgans
Susan Colleton
Shane Darnell & Horse Show Wire
Driftway Meadows
East Side Grille
Lisa Foley
Gay Gove
Shirley Haas
Horse Lover’s Tack
Hotel Viking
Barbara Irvine
Jan, Chuck & Katie Jenkins
Erin Kelley
Tess Kritsky
KGA Morgans
NEMHS Thanks Its Silent Auction Sponsors
Sasha Klein
Lincoln Grille
Katie & Kelly Howe
Patsy Lloyd
Sherri Loon
Culver McLean
Merial
Monnington~John & Anglea Bulmer
Moreland Farm
Morgan Horse Heritage Foundation
NEMHA
Port City
Cheryl & Victoria Ricci
Gary Saccocia
Sebring Stable
David Sproul
The Morgan Horse Magazine
The National Museum of the Morgan Horse
The Pub
Mike & Joan Travers
Meredith Vieira
Winged Spur
Many thanks!
Morgan Horse Showing
~When & Where It All Began~
The countdown for this historic even began well before the first horse arrived on the grounds! The excitement in the
air was electric! Social media was abuzz with comments from around the country as friends planned a week filled with
superlative competition and unsurpassed camaraderie! What could possibly have precipitated this much enthusiasm
in the midst of some very challenging summer weather? The New England Morgan Regional Horse Show, of course!
The event that defines the summer calendar for Morgan show horse enthusiasts had the entire Morgan show horse
world gearing up for the glittering celebration of the show’s Diamond Anniversary. For today’s exhibitors and
spectators, the show is known as New England Morgan Regional and set at the historic tri-county fairgrounds in the
foothills of the Berkshires. Northampton legends abound, about the people and the horses, who have traversed the
country to compete at these hallowed show grounds to make their mark in Morgan history. For over six decades
Morgan enthusiasts have gathered in Northampton to celebrate the great Morgan horse and add their own individual
stories and memories to the rewriting of the history of this grande dame of Morgan competition. However, did you
know that the roots of this esteemed event reach back seventy five years to the hills of Vermont and to the dreams of
the Morgan movers and shakers of the time?
The horse show program from the 1963 National Morgan Horse Show records the inauguration of the historic event.
“The year was 1939. It marked the 150th anniversary of the birth of a horse named Justin Morgan. It also marked the
100th anniversary of the birth of Colonel Joseph Battell, founder of the American Morgan Horse Register. It was
rightly a year for celebration. Owen Moon of Upwey Farms, South Woodstock, Vermont, and vice-president of the
Morgan Horse Club, Inc. (precursor to AMHA) was selected as chairman of a committee to organize an exhibition of all
available Morgans to properly commemorate the event. Mr. Moon was already host to the Vermont 100 Mile Trail
Ride sponsored by the Green Mountain Horse Assn. Many Morgans were entered annually in the in the trail ride. It
was logical to complete the 3-Day Labor Day weekend with an all Morgan show. In this way THE National was born.
The early shows at the Upwey Oval were family affairs. A hillside served as the grandstand, but practically all of the
spectators were railbirds. A more ardent and less sophisticated group of exhibitors and spectators could not be found.
When not munching on box lunches, everyone talked horse. Many spectators even planned their vacations to include
this one day show.” Imagine! Seventy –five years later, there are scores of people whose vacations still revolve
around showing horses at the oldest Morgan show in the world!
International events gave pause to this new Morgan venture and World War II interrupted the fledgling Morgan show
with no events being held in 1943-46. Not to be permanently deterred, however, Ted Davis, of the esteemed
Windcrest Farm, was “charged with the responsibility for revival of the show after the war, and revive it, he did.”
Windcrest Farm hosted the show in 1947-1949 and when growing entries precipitated a larger venue, the show moved
to the beautiful Buena Vista Farm on the Connecticut River (also in Windsor.) By then the show had expanded to a
two day event with the horses of Dr. Wallace L Orcutt, Upwey Farm, the U. S. Morgan Horse Farm, Windcrest Farm,
and Townshend Farm always being strong competitors. These early breeders were dedicated to continuing to
promote the Morgan horses that they loved and it soon became clear that in order to accommodate their growing
numbers that they would once again need to find a larger “home” for The National Morgan Horse Show. At that time it
was noted that “Vermont was the recognized home of the Morgan horse, and the show left its birthplace not without
some dissension.” Nicely, and diplomatically, stated! However, back then, way before the concept of being “politically
correct”, the breed’s strong-minded, opinionated, out-spoken leaders were not always diplomatic. It was J. Cecil
Ferguson, of Broadwall Farm, and the then president of the New England Morgan Horse Association, who assumed
the mission of finding a more appropriate, and acceptable, location for the group’s blossoming show. The Three-
County Fairgrounds in Northampton offered permanent stabling and an outdoor ring “which would help to maintain the
family atmosphere” and the town of Northampton was a popular choice because of its convenient location and its
exhibitor-friendly amenities. Another “footnote” about the show is that, in addition to its elite horse show status,
NEMHS remains so special because it is still a celebration of family and friends. The family tradition, of both people
and horses, is generational and Northampton friendships span decades.
The new site, also precipitated a new show date because the Labor Day weekend was not available at the
fairgrounds, so The National was moved to the first weekend in August. That was 1952 and as we are wont to say,
“The rest is history!” And what a glorious history it has been.
While the move met the “housing” requirements of a growing breed, it also created controversy (yup, it did) because
the popularity of the Morgan horse was expanding throughout the United States and many exhibitors could not travel
to Northampton to compete. So, the Northeast, which once held a lock as the hub of Morgan activity, was being
challenged by breeders in far reaching corners of the country. In response, AMHA (which had grown from the original
Morgan Horse Club) responded with the creation of FIVE “nationals” across the country. (The incredible Waseeka’s
Skylark did set a record in 1968 as he and trainer JT Brown went coast to capture Grand Champion Stallion titles at all
5 Morgan Nationals. ) The concept of multiple Nationals, of course, was only a temporary fix, because the question
remained, who was the “real” National champion? After much “discussion” the current Regional Show format was
formed with a Grand National created in 1973 (first in Detroit and then moved to OKC in 1975) so that the show we all
cherish is now the New England Regional Morgan Horse Show. Referencing those changes at the time, Bob Brooks
commented, “Few New Englanders have ever acknowledged the change and the show is still reverently referred to as
THE National.” That moniker too as segued into the now even more abbreviated, “New England” with an amazing
tone that is spoken with reverence, passion and spirit. But, whatever the name, the connotation is the
same…excitement, enthusiasm, and energy like no other…that’s NEMHS!
In celebrating its 75th anniversary, this show, whether you call it The National, Eastern National, or New England, this
renowned show holds a special place in the hearts of so many Morgan fans. From its early beginnings, as a fitting end
to the 100 Mile Trail ride, to the largest Regional in the country, New England upholds that long tradition of dedication
to excellence in promoting the great Morgan Horse that began in 1939. From its earliest days, some of the most
illustrious names in Morgandom have graced the ring at Northampton. Early breeders included Bar-T, Broadwall,
Burkland, Green Meads, Lippitt, The Government Farm whose prefix was U.S., Townshend, Upwey, Waseeka, and
Windcrest . These farms were instrumental in promoting the horse show and many of these names can be found in
the pedigrees (albeit generations back) of our breed’s current champs. Northampton was also the show where
individual owners of perhaps a single horse would come to compete…and often win. Did you know that in its early
days only “amateurs” could compete in pleasure classes and that every English pleasure class had at least one
obstacle, usually a jump, that entries had to negotiate? Imagine that!
The show continued to grow, and in its evolution came the
expansion not only of its location and numbers of horses
competing, but also the advent of the Show Stable. Early
competitors were breeders showing and promoting their own
stock, (or whose horses were shown by their farm’s personal
trainer) and although new breeding farms have continued to
make huge impacts on the development of the Morgan horse,
the advent of the “Show Stable” opened up a new chapter in
Morgan show horse competition. For owners who were not
able to keep their horses at home, training stables enabled a
more diverse group of Morgan fans to compete at the breed’s
biggest shows…Northampton being the ultimate goal. In
perusing the second volume of “Who’s Who In New England
Morgandom,” a compendium of Morgan history facts and
figures, it seems like it was the mid-1960’s when trainers
showing “customers’ horses” began to have an enormous
impact on the horse show and the breed itself. Few people
who were there in 1964 will forget Joe Parker trotting into the ring at Northampton on Bay State Gallant and taking
home the championships in both the Park Saddle & Park Harness classes.
Interestingly it was 1964, after the implementation of new AMHA shoeing rules (as you can imagine, more than a little
“discussion” when into that decision), when the show held a $500 Saddle Special…for horses whose toe length and
shoe weight had to conform to the new specifications. The grin on John Lydon’s face is one for the history books as
he and his best pal, Waseeka’s Nocturne trotted up for the win! Ensuing years have brought most of the high profile
training stables and contemporary breeders to Northampton where a NEMHS title is still a highly-prized feat. We
have thrilled to classes where the best of the best vie for that impressive NEMHS cooler!
As in all things, change is inevitable, but even with all of its changes New England is still the favorite show for many
Morgan lovers. It is fun to scroll back and see that “movie in your eye’s mind” of changes throughout the years of this
historic and unique Morgan Show. From a one day show for breeders and their families to a six day show for
hundreds of Morgan fans, NEMHS has undergone changes that parallel “real life.” (Hmmm….actually I like to think
our Morgan world is real life!) Fashions and hairstyles have changed (no giggles here please), attire has certainly
become more sophisticated, tack has become more stylish, and the way we present our horses may have become
more division-specific, but the magnificent Morgan horse still captures our hearts in a venue that captures our fondest
(or when it rains, nightmarish) reminiscences.
Although the Fairgrounds (thankfully) have undergone
nothing short of cosmetic surgery and the class list
continues to change to meet current demographics, the spirit
of New England remains strong. “Old timers” (yes, I am
definitely one of them) remember some favorite classes of
the past and wonder could we bring one back…just for fun?
Trotting & Harness races on the track, the Justin Morgan
Performance Class, the Versatility Class, the Family Class,
the Park Harness Pairs, Saddle Pairs, the Trailer Race, the
Sire & Get, Dam & Produce, and Mare & Foal are all part of
the show’s grand tradition. We also remember water fights,
wet tee shirt contests, the historic grand stand filled for every
session, and the complete awe when as kids we watched
Jim Anderson, Bob Baker, Bill Brooks, Bob Brooks, Nancy
Ela Caisse, John Lydon, Dr. Bob Orcutt, Lyman & Ruth
Orcutt, the Parkers, Percy Locke, and Pat Tataronis work the Morgan celebrities of their day. The show has been
home to the All American Futurity, the nostalgic retirements of Vigilda Burkland, Sadwin, Waseeka’s Nocturne, HVK
Courageous Flaire, and Born to Boogie, poignant Hall of Fame ceremonies, the Grand Old Champions presentations,
a Morgan History Pageant, the Morgan Parade through downtown Northampton to “advertise” the show, as well as the
historic East Coast Invitational Sales where champions past and future were bought and sold. Memories of this great
horse show are as diverse as the Morgan friends who love it. Just ask anyone who counts NEMHS as one of their
favorites! From the fun-loving pranks, to spectacular competition, to poignant forever moments, to the incredible bond
of life-time friendships, it is hard to define the magic of Northampton. For the hundreds of Morgan fans who joined us
as we celebrated the Diamond Anniversary of this historical horse show we hope you made some of your own
Northampton memories. They are sure to last a life time.
I would like to make a Morgan “shout out” to Patti Brooks, Nancy Caisse, Helen Herold, and Suzy Lucine for their
great Morgan history lessons and to The Morgan Horse Magazine for sharing these wonderful photos from their
archives. The legacy of the great Morgan horse, and this iconic horse show, lives on through those who continue to
remind us of the amazing tradition whose humble beginnings 75 years ago in Vermont spawned an event that
continues to rewrite the Morgan history books. Happy Trails!
~NEMHS 2014 A Glittering Gala of Morgandom~
Morgans and Kids…Naturally
Perfectly
Polished
and
Poised
Oh What A Night! Thank You Bryna, Lynn, and Boogie!
….
Again, and Again, and Again
The Sporting Life
Park Horse Panache!
Chelsea shines at New England
BOSS Rocks Northampton!
Nancy and Miles… Shining Stars at NEMHS!
Northampton Friends
Thank you Stephen!
Icons of the morgan world
Judy
Steve
Annie
Stylin’
Dynamos of Dressage
***Karen’s Night to Remember***
Morgan Friends & Families
Morgans Are All About Families
Groovin’ With The Goves!
Friends…old and new
NEMHS Awareness T-Shirt Toss
~Celebrating Individual Diversity United By Love of the Morgan Horse~
For many years we have worn pink ribbons in support of breast cancer. We have
had pink ribbon classes and we have generously supported Breast Cancer research.
Tonight’s T Shirts are in support of many different Life Health Challenges.
What became so obvious to me, as I was collecting shirts, was we have all be
touched in some way by different Health challenge, some very personally, some
second hand, but all of us in some way.
With all our different challenges our Morgan Horses don’t see them. They don’t
see race or religion, healthy or sick, they don’t see challenged or non. They just see
and love us as US.
Our Morgans are our strength and often our rock. Our Morgan Family is time and
time again the support that carries us over the rough road and sticks with us until
there is smooth sailing.
Tonight we embrace our differences and Life Health Challenges. These T-Shirts all
have a personal story. When you wear your T shirts or bracelet, I want you to
embrace how lucky we are to have the Morgan Horse in our lives. Let us see the
world as they do. Let us continue to give back to others as unconditionally as our
Morgans give to us.
Please join us under the tent after the last class for our wine and beer tasting. This is
a great place to share your special Morgan story.
Tonight Shirts come to us from
Griffen’s Friends a foundation that brings Joy to courageous kids fighting cancer
St Baldrick’s Foundation a charity committed to funding the most promising
research to find cures for childhood cancer. Our Kendra Peeples, stands behind the
foundation, she not only shaved her head this spring for childhood cancer, but team
raised over $6000 for St Baldricks.
Micheal J Fox Foundation Reaching a cure for Parkinson’s Disease
Charley’s Fund Fighting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Many of you know our west coast Morgan
exhibitor Alex Mooney, she sends her love and gratitude to the Morgan community
for their support as she lives with Cystic Fibrosis. She has had an amazing journey
and much of her strength is credited to her Morgan.
The Pediatric Development Center of the Berkshire this is an early intervention
center
Autism
Multiple Sclerosis The MS Foundation
NMO Neuromyelitis Optica Guthery Jackson Charitable Foundation
~Northampton’s Movers & Shakers~
Chloe
CHAMPIONS!
Parker
20??
2014
Parker
Morgan Elegance!
Thanks Shane for capturing the Magic!
2014 NEM HS Vendors
Many thanks to our great vendors!
Dr. Benson's Bruiser's Barbeque
Fruit Flip Inkstables J B Design
Jan's Country Kitchen Jan's Fried Dough
Lincoln Grille Marsha D'Arriaga LLC
My Trainer's Closet Mod Jods
National Museum of the Morgan Horse Polly Paintbrush
Rhode Island Horse Supply Shane Schifflet
Stonebrook Saddlery The Herold Group
Winston’s Detailing Woody's on the Rocks
~Larry~
Bits and Pieces …Reflecting on 54 Years of Northampton Memories
In celebrating its 75th
Diamond Anniversary Horse Show the New
England Regional was the best of all things Morgan…just as I knew
it would be. It is the show that dreams are made of, just as it has been
throughout its glittering seven plus decades. With a history like no
other, it has sustained numerous transitions, some small, some not so
small, and can be challenging if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, but
it will always be Northampton to me…bigger than life itself and
replete with the memories of a lifetime. It began as The National
Morgan Show, segued briefly to the Eastern National Morgan Show,
and finally became The New England Morgan Regional Horse Show, or quite simply, New England. The
venues have changed, the horses have changed, the people have changed, but in a much more poignant way,
much has remained the same. Yes, it is true, I love everything about this horseshow and have for the past 54
years. Of course, at this point in my life, I may be accused of being “barn blind” but along with my favorite
comic character, Maxine, I choose to overlook those things that just don’t align with how I remember them!
In 1961 I sat in a packed grand stand and was mesmerized by the gorgeous Morgan horses that were
competing in the biggest horse show ring I have ever seen. Amazing classes of English pleasure horses who
had to jump, the Justin Morgan Performance (ride, drive, race under saddle and pull a 500 pound stone boat),
the Trailer Race, and the class I will never forget, The Sire & Get class. Orcland Vigildon stood up with
four of his black chestnut sons lined up behind him. They were breath taking! The handlers were all dressed
in white coats, black pants, and straw hats and Gil Carr led the great stallion up for the winning presentation,
a sterling silver punch bowl set! In trotting out of the ring Gil and Vigildon both had their right legs raised,
seemingly in sync, as Gil tipped his hat to the enthusiastic crowd. I was hooked! The next year I was given
a Morgan, Townshend Selectman, a grand old champion who really taught me how to ride and gave me a
perfect segue into the Morgan family. Two years later, my family purchased Townshend Vigilad, one of the
Vigildon sons who had proudly posed with his sire for their Sire & Get win and I was on the road to a life-
long love affair with Morgan horses. However, it was almost twenty years later when a little gelding,
Townshend Marsden, made those Northampton dreams really come true. He was my “horse of a lifetime”
and I had the thrill of making victory passes in the ring where I had long been excited about winning a
ribbon…any ribbon. Since then, I have had wonderful opportunities to become more involved with both
NEMHA & NEMHS and our amazing family of Morgan friends. So, for the past 54 years I have been
honored, not only to have been in the presence of some of the breed’s historic legends, but also to have
watched numerous youngsters grow up in the Morgan tradition and return to Northampton again and again
sharing the magic of the horse show with yet another generation in our Morgan family. The years pass, but
the fun, the grandeur, the reminiscing, and the magical memories are preserved each time someone says,”
Remember when…”
The enduring spirit of New England continues unabashedly and unbridled in the hearts of those whose love
for this iconic show and the great Morgan horse is shared with their many reflections of Northampton
memories. Happy Trails!
Coming Soon! NEMHA’s Combined Prize List… Better Than Ever for 2015!
Morgan Horse Riding Lesson Programs…In the
Greater New England Area
Amazeen Stables, Deerfield, NH [email protected] 603- 566-1783
Anne Benson Stables, Portsmouth, RI [email protected] 781-635-6574
Barbara Irvine Stable, Chatham, NY [email protected] 518-392-5064
Bellewether LLC ~ Judy Nason Stables, Lee, NH [email protected] 978-855-2468
Best of Both Worlds, Middleboro, MA 508-946-4414
Braeburn Equitation Center~Chatham Center, NY [email protected] 574-387-0
Broadfields,Kass Booth, Eliot, ME www.broadfieldsmorgans.com 207-439-1827
Burkland Farm, Rowley, [email protected] 978-948-7713
Cedar Spring Farm, Charlotte, [email protected] 802-425-7211
Chrislar Farm, Rowley, MAwww.chrislarfarm.com 978-948-7674
Morgan Horse Riding Lesson Programs…In the Greater New
England Area
CPM Stables~Newton, NH~ [email protected] 603-382-5544
Deer Run Farm~Pittsfield, NH~ [email protected] 603-435-6612
Driftway Meadows, Westport, MA~www.driftwaymeadows.com 508-636-8864
Equitation Unlimited, Plainville, MA, [email protected] 508-695-9847
Fairview Stables, Manchester, [email protected] 860-605-6876
Foxfire Stables, Mansfield Center, CT~www.foxfirestables.net 860-377-6314
Furnace Brook Farm, Marshfield, MA~ www.furnacebrookfarm.com 781-837-2485
Hyland Morgans, Charlton, MA~ [email protected] 508-733-9174
Hunters Glen Morgans, Cheshire, [email protected] 203-272-2059
Morgan Horse Riding Lesson Programs… In the Greater New England Area
Independence Stable, Belchertown, MA [email protected] 413-284-0371
KGA Morgans, Mendon, MA [email protected] 508-369-4233
Lakefront Farm, Gray Maine, Spencer and Adrianna Day,
Legacy Stable, Mendon, MA~ [email protected] 508-478-1580
Meadowmere Farm, Vernon, VT [email protected] 802-254-2176
Moreland Farm, West Brookfield, [email protected] 413-477-6524
Nob Hill, Johnna Chenail, Clinton, CT~860-5077
North Star Farm, Norwell, MA~ [email protected] 781-834-5740
Northgate Stables, Newton, [email protected] 603-394-7699
Partridge Hill Stable~160 Partridge Road Barre, VT 06541 www.PartridgeHillStable.com 802-476-3275
Morgan Horse Riding Lesson Programs… In the Greater New England Area
Possibility Stables, Broadalbin, NY [email protected] 508-883-3600
QUA-lity Stables, Oneonta, NYwww.qualitystables.com 607-432-8977
Rolling Oaks Morgans, Gansevoort, NY, 12831. www.rollingoaksmorgansllc.com
Sea-Vu Farm, Boothbay, ME [email protected] 207-633-6155
Sebring Stables, Richmond, MA [email protected] 413-448-5300
Soliloque Farm, Plainville, MA 508-345-3306
Taylor River Farm, Hampton Falls, NH www.taylorriverfarm.com 603-926-7662
Timber Hill Stables, Kingston, MA [email protected] 781-582-2276
Whispering Meadows, Hudson, NY Courtney Scionti 518-851-2462
Wingedspur Farm, Candia, NHwww.wingedspurfarm.com 603-483-5960
Wyndamere Farm, Georgetown, MA
[email protected] 978-352-7739
Wynter Thyme Manor, Bethany, CT
www.wynterthymemanor.com 203-627-6436
Be Part of the Morgan Momentum…Join NEMHA
2014 Membership Application New Membership______ Renewal______ Name___________________________________________________ Corporate Name_________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________ City__________________________ State_______ Zip_____________ Phone______________________ E-mail_______________________ MEMBERSHIP FEES ______ Individual Membership $25.00 *Individual over 18 (One Vote) ______ Corporate $35.00 *Corporate Horse owners only. All members of the corporation must be members of NEMHA (One Vote) ______ Family Membership $35.00 *Adult and Spouse/Partner and any unmarried children from same household under 18 (One Vote) Names of Family Members (please provide birthdates for those under 18) ________________________________________ ________________________________________ ________________________________________ ________________________________________ ________________________________________
Please mail Membership Application and Check payable to:NEMHA Jessie Nygren, NEMHA Treasurer
347 Nygrens Road Sutton, VT 05867
Contact Membership Secretary Sarah Gove with any questions at
SarahGove@Taylor River.com
NEMHA News
EDITOR: Susan Colleton
PRODUCTION: Katy & Susan Colleton
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Susan Colleton,
K & D Photography
Mike Galletta
Andy Illes
Tess Kiritsy
Max Rewicki
Shane Shifflet
Cailey White
The Morgan Horse Magazine
BITS AND PIECES…The cooler temperatures have
been creeping in, marking the perfect time of
year for trail riding and of course heralding the
coming of Equine Affaire. NEMHA will once again
have a strong presence at this unparalleled
opportunity to promote the Great Morgan
Horse. Make plans to visit, and better yet
volunteer, in helping to spread the word about
our All-American breed.
The 75th edition of the New England Regional is
now part of the history books but the memories
of the show live on. With literally tens of
thousands of photos taken by a myriad of
professional and amateur photographers during
the week, we will continue to add pictures to
our website, upcoming newsletters, and our
NEMHS & NEMHA pages on Facebook. Please
join the fun by sending along your favorites.
Best wishes for a great Fall!
Happy Trails!
Susan
I wish to send a HUGE
thank you to Andy
Illes for the generous
use of her many
beautiful photographs
that make the pages of
this issue sparkle! In
addition, the gorgeous
photo that graces our
cover will be available
for purchase with
proceeds benefitting
FOREVER MORGANS.
Combining talent and
compassion is Andy’s
distinctive signature
style for which we are
forever grateful!
NEMHA News
For your generosity, talent, compassion,
creativity, and love of all things Morgan, we
thank you. You are the essence of
*******AWESOMENESS*******
AMHA Region 1 Youth Clubs
Join the FUN!
Berkshire Morgan Youth Club: Barbara Irvine, 1550 Rt. 203, Chatham, NY 12037: (518) 392-5064 Foxfire Morgan Youth: Stacey Stearns, 440 Marshfield City Rd., Storrs, CT 06268; (860) 377-6314 Granite State Mystical Morgans Sara Foy, 6 Colcord Rd., Kingston, NH 03848; (603) 642-4125 Hooked on Morgans Kass Booth, 10 Broadfields Rd., Eliot, ME 03903; (207) 252-6027 The Lippitt Club Youth Heather Pinet, 854 New County Rd., Dayton, ME 04005; (207) 499-7189 Maine & Tail Morgans Becky Batchelder, 2 Lower Barley St., Lebanon, ME 04027; (603) 289-3078 Mass Bay Morgan Youth Group Debbie Smith, 1801 Ocean St #31A, Marshfield, MA 02050; (781) 837-7482 Midcoast Morgans Youth Group Angela Alley, 25 Farnham Point Rd, East Boothbay, ME 04544; (207) 633-5270 Taylor River Tadpoles Kristin Farley, 5 Swain Dr., Hampton Falls, NH 03844; (603) 926-7662
New England Morgan Horse
Association 2014 Officers & Board
& Directors
OFFICERS President: Joan Travers
Vice President: Harry Sebring
Secretary: Selina Cloutier
Membership Secretary:
Sarah Gove
Treasurer: Jessie Nygren
Clerk: Susan Colleton
Past President: Richard Pitman
DIRECTORS Serena Lynn Brown
Judy Candage
Susan Colleton
Raymond S. Ferro
Will Filosi
Jeffrey Gove
Robert Harb
Sara J. Hausamann
Helen Herold
Maggie Hood
Barbara Irvine
Leslie Kelley
Sasha Klein
Patricia Lloyd
Cheryl Marcelonis
Karen McKnight
Cindy Mugnier
Joshua Noble
Kurt Nygren
Carolyn Sebring
Harry Sebring
Maura Sweeney-Reeve
Terri Travers
www.NEMHA.com
NEMHA News
From Cover To Cover A Morgan Is The Horse For YOU!
Morgan Memories Are Forever
NEMHA News
New England Morgan Horse Association
NEM HA.com
NEMHA Circuit Champions Banquet Weekend
February 6 & 7, 2015
Hotel Viking Newport, Rhode Island
The End
NEMHA News
Happy Trails!