Two things happen to me as I approach the Christmas season. I am touched by stories of those who give generously and want to be counted in their numbers. I also find that it’s a time for reflection and evaluation.
Have we been committed to our vision of being the best educational resource to the equine community? That’s one reason we take the time toward year-end to evaluate our progress. Thanks to those that took time to complete the 2006 Reader Survey! The information from the survey shapes the direction of our editorial content and helps our advertisers make wise decisions about products and services they offer. Survey results will be available online December 1 at www.nwhorsesource.com.
Special thanks to the companies that provided quality prizes for NWHS Reader Survey winners. We could not make these prizes available without the partnership of these community minded sponsors:
• Cowboy Campsite—$1,000 towards a campsite at Cowboy Campsite near Sedro-Woolley, Washington to Kim Lemke of Snohomish, Washington
• Nutrena -$250 gift certificate for Nutrena Feeds to Frederick Snodgrass of Wasilla, Alaska
• Dover Saddlery —$250 gift certificate to Lynn Welborn, Grangeville, Idaho
• Cavallo —$130 value All-Purpose Western or English Saddle Pad to Rone Pelton of Tonasket, Washington
• Raye Lochert Horsemanship— $31 Training DVD to Sarah Lakers, Tillamook, Oregon
Recently we had the pleasure of meeting some of you at the Mane Event Expo in Chilliwack, BC. Interacting with readers is one of the best parts of the publishing industry. We have a great support team, writers, and advertisers that are committed to helping the Northwest Horse Source achieve the goal of being one of the best educational resources in the Northwest.
Trade shows and expos are wonderful places to learn valuable tips about caring for and training your horse. They are one of the best venues for experiencing a buffet-type sampling of trainers and their philosophies, giving you the opportunity to decide if you share their values and can learn from them.
This month, NWHS is celebrating giving. First, we celebrate with a tribute to Mary Trout, former employee of NWHS who was one of those people that put working clothes on giving and defined it for others. Mary’s inoperable brain tumor may have taken her body, but not her spirit. Her life touched many people in a way that blessed and enriched those who experienced her radiant disposition. See page 16.
Secondly, we celebrate giving with the selection of the 2006 NWHS Charity, Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch in Bend, Oregon. This Ranch of Rescued Dreams is the only non-profit of its type in the United States, taking abused horses and pairing them with neglected and abused children. See page 4 for an inspirational story about the founder, the ranch, and a pair of survivors.
During this holiday season, make time for family and friends. More importantly, take time to show kindness to someone who may truly need your generosity, love, and friendship. Refresh your passion and remember to ride!
