I'm looking forward to being LVDA's new president for the remaining year. We have many exciting events planned for 2008 and I hope that all of you will at least participate in one event.

First, I'd like to take this time to thank resigning president, Patti Thompson, for all her hard work for the past two years. Patti has improved the club by championing the non-profit organization status from the State, establishing a budgeting committee, purchasing a safer and improved dressage arena, acquiring "bigger name" clinicians, forming a schooling show point exchange with ESDCTA and providing valuable input from her years involved with DVCTA, Florida and Virginia dressage associations. She spent countless hours on the phone and computer answering questions and diverting conflicts. Unfortunately, Patti's home-life is demanding further attention and she chose to resign to devote further time to her personal life; however, she is planning to stay active as a club member. Thank you, Patti!

Secondly, I'd like to take the time to introduce myself. I've been a member of LVDA for at least 20+ years, participated on the Schooling Show and Adult Team Committees for the past four years as well as serving as vice president for the past two years. I've acquired excellent business skills working as an Environmental, Health and Safety Manager for 26 years. Since 2006, I've had the wonderful opportunity not to return to the corporate workforce and concentrate on what I love-horses and dressage. My current partner, Pilot (Napoleon), a talented Dutch Warmblood, and I are currently showing at Prix St. Georges. It took me 27 years to reach my goal of showing FEI so; I fully understand the time and perseverance it takes to acquire the skills to be a good rider and the effort to find the right horse. I've recently embarked on a new career of teaching dressage, which I can honestly say, is the first job I truly love!

Thirdly, I'd like to challenge all of LVDA's membership to expand their horizons in dressage by supporting LVDA. Participate in clinics, schooling shows, committees or meetings to open your minds to the lifetime learning experience of dressage. Every member, clinician and judge has something to offer. Your challenge is to take the parts that suit you and file the rest, but don't pass up the opportunity to learn! Like most clubs, we only have 15-20 members that routinely participate in activities and the LVDA Board would love to see that group expand. For those who have never attended an LVDA event, I think, you will find the "regulars" are a very friendly and congenial herd and better yet, they don't bite or kick when being introduced! Make it a 2008 New Year's resolution to feed your dressage learning bank by participating in at least one LVDA event this year!