As we focus on youth I’m reminded that they are our future. Today’s children are tomorrow’s hope. This issue brings a fresh, innocent perspective from our young people. We’re excited to include the results from our Youth Essay Contest.

We appreciate the overwhelming response to our essay contest. It made it difficult to select the finalists. My heartfelt thanks go to each young person for the time and effort that went into these stories. I believe we could all learn something about loving that special horse. It often seems that as children we were much closer and had more time with our equine friends.

As another important part of our youth issue this year, we are including a two-part series, “Grey Warrior” - a true story about Jean Fixen’s Creek Maiden great-grandmother, Red Leaf and her brave grey stallion.

As you page through this issue, you will find Steps 4 and 5 of Frank Bell’s Seven-Step Safety System, information on purchasing horse property, understanding your horse’s conformation and much more.

Look for our “Recreational Riding” issue next month. We have some great things happening in May, lots of events and clinics all over the Northwest. Make sure and watch for activities in your area. Our pages are full of events and places to go!

Thanks again for your continued support. Please let us know how we’re doing and I would encourage you to communicate with us regarding any issues you feel are important to the horse community.

Have a great April and….Remember to Ride.