TellMagazineVol1Issue2-web

Show & TellF o r T h o s e W h o L i v e a n d R i d e W e l l

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE GREAT SOUTHWEST EQUESTRIAN CENTER

M A G A Z I N E

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Winning Ways: Spirit Spurs A&M to Championships p. 20

Vol. 1 No. 2 Fall II 2010

TEXAS FLAG ARTChristopher Mayes

p.38

NRBCGallery

p. 16

TALLY HO!Longacre Hunt

p. 30

When Margaret Go’s children need care, sometimes the biggest challenge is getting from their West Houston home to a world-class pediatric hospital.

By giving to the Heal Sick Children Campaign at Texas Children’s Hospital, you give families like the Gos peace of mind—and a way to avoid traffic when the health of their children is at stake. That’s because your donation will help build Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus, a brand new facility bringing superb care for childhood illnesses and injuries to one of Houston’s fastest growing communities.

It’s part of the largest expansion in our history and one that will help us provide unsurpassed health care to more and more patient families in West Houston.

W W W . H E A L S I C K C H I L D E N . O R G

3 Show & Tell Magazine | Vol. 1 No. 2 Fall II 2010

VIP Room

Come enjoy the games:Saturday - College Football

Sunday - NFL Games

Complimentary refreshments

and flat screen televisions

Hours: Saturday and Sunday 10 - 4

Adult supervision required for those 18 years and under

Take a cool, air conditioned break upstairs

Arena Club

4 For Those Who Live and Ride Well

C h a n g e

JanuaryBrittania Farm USEF “A” Winter ShowJan. 7-9, GSEC Main Arena

Houston All Arabian Horse ShowJan. 14-16, All GSEC Arenas

Houston Dressage SocietyWinter ShowJan. 22-23, All GSEC Arenas

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Go Texan Contests Jan. 28-29, GSEC Main Arena, TCH Arena Club

Texas American Saddle Horse ShowJan. 29-30, GSEC East Arena

Show & TellC a l e n d a r o f E v e n t s

NovemberGreat American/USDF Region 9& Southwest Dressage ChampionshipsHouston Dressage Society Autumn ClassicNov. 4-7, GSEC All Arenas

Great Southwest Equestrian Center Autumn ClassicUSEF “A” ShowNov. 10-14, GSEC Main Arena

Great Southwest Equestrian Center Open All Breed Show SeriesNov. 13-14, GSEC East Arena

The Final ChaseUSEF “A” ShowNov. 17-21, GSEC All Arenas

The Final ChaseUSEF “A” Show Nov. 17-21, GSEC All Arenas

Greater Houston Quarter Horse ShowNov. 27, GSEC East Arena

Fall Finale/Fall HarvestGHHJA ShowNov. 27-28, GSEC Main Arena

E v e n t s

DecemberGulf Coast Arabian Christmas ShowDec. 3-5, GSEC Main Arena

Texas American Saddle Horse Association ShowDec. 4-5, GSEC East Arena

Brittania Farm AQHA Santa Claus ClassicDec. 9-12, GSEC Main Arena

E v e n t s

= Great Southwest Equestrian Center Event

E v e n t s

NRBC Photo Gallery

16 National Reining Breeders Classic

April 5-18, 2010 Hosted by GSEC


C h a n g eC o n t e n t s

Show & TellF o r T h o s e W h o L i v e a n d R i d e W e l l M A G A Z I N E

Features20 WINNING WAYS

Spirit Spurs A&M to Eight National Championships By JR Goforth

26 DOUBLE THE FUNSpencer and Jackson Brittan Believe in Hard Work and Good Times By Alexandra Beckstett

30 TALLY HO!A Day in the Life of Longacre Hunt

34 FROM THE GROUND UPMeagen Dean Inspires True Horsemanship By Alexandra Beckstett

38 TEXAS FLAG ARTA Modern Edge with the Warm Embrace of a Legendary Past By JR Goforth

Columns7 Publisher’s Column

Show Business By Laura Manning

14 Real Estate RoundupLakeside Equestrian Estate by Deitra Robertson

16 NRBC Photo GalleryApril 5-18, 2010 Waltenberry Inc.

23 College CircuitMaking the Team By JR Goforth

24 Money MattersThe Health Care Reconciliation Act and Your Taxes By William Chris Mathers, CPA

42 Talk Around TexasCan Slot Machines Help the Texas Horse World? By JR Goforth

44 Texas Children’s HospitalThe Heart of the Matter By Sandra Bretting

47 Cause for ApplauseMiracles on Horseback By JR Goforth

49 About TownThe Arrangement, Pinto Ranch

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C h a n g eP u b l i s h e r ’ s C o l u m n

Show BusinessThere’s a line Ethel Merman

made famous in her song “There’s no business like show business.”

I couldn’t help but think about that as I was overwhelmed at the oppor-tunity to attend the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., last month. From the drama of the opening

ceremonies to the awesome Kentucky Horse Park setting, I was totally spell-bound. And to add to the excitement I was in the team suite when our U.S. reining team of Tom McCutcheon, Shawn Flarida, Craig Schmersal and

Tim McQuay took home the World Gold in the FEI World Team Reining Championship. Next issue we will have a huge spread devoted to our many friends of GSEC who were participants and spectators of this worldwide event as it was held in the U.S. for the first time ever. GSEC was well-represented at the Games and our many friends and contributing photographers next issue will share with you the thrill of it all. This fall we have our own bit of new show business as we welcome our new show production arm (see our events calendar for new GSEC produced shows) and our new Equine Manager, Amy Uniss, who arrives to us by way of Florida. ( “Cookie” is still here now and then – no one will let her retire!)

There may not be any lines to memorize but there are certainly some

amazing characters and wonderful performances on our stage. “Let’s get on with the show…”

“There’s no business like show business...”

Colleen McQuay and Lyle Lovett celebrating at the World

Equestrian Games


Show & TellM A G A Z I N E

“A” Rated USEF “A” THJA

$10,000 Autumn Jumper ClassicUSEF Jumper Rating Two

November 10-14, 2010

To be held at

2501 S. Mason Road, Katy, TX 77450 www.gswec.com

Sponsored by

Land Rover, Pinto RanchThe Arrangement

Volume 1 Issue 2

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEFLaura Manning

[email protected], 281-578-7669

EQUINE MANAGING EDITOR

Alexandra Beckstett [email protected], 281-543-6198

MANAGING EDITOR

Janet (JR) Goforth [email protected], 713-203-1146

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sandra Bretting, Deitra Robertson, William Chris Mathers

ART DIRECTION

Equine Originals

ART DIRECTOR

Suzy Brown [email protected], 971-678-3694

PHOTOGRAPHY MANAGER

Kelly McChesney

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tangi Arant, Christopher Mayes, Shawn McMillen, Deitra Robertson, Kim Swacina, Chloe Johnson,

Lesley Humphrey, Agapito Sanchez, Alex Dumestre, Breanna Jones

ADVERTISING

Local: Irene Molina, 281-578-7669

National: Charles Ward, Idea Works, Inc., 972-934-6543

[email protected]

PUBLISHED BY

Great Southwest Equestrian Center 2501 S. Mason Road, Katy, TX 77450

281-578-7669 www.gswec.com

© Great Southwest Equestrian Center. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written consent of Great Southwest Equestrian Center. SHOW & TELL Magazine is published 4 times a year by the Great Southwest Equestrian Center, 2501 S. Mason Road, Katy, Texas 77450. Opinions and editorial expressed herein in are those of the experts consulted and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editors, advisory board or staff of the Great Southwest Equestrian Center.


Conscientious & Confidential Service

24-Hour Service Number

RepresentingAmerican Live Stock Insurance Co.

Nancy HansenP.O Box 520, Simonton, Texas 77476

281-346-2667, Fax 281-533-9116

GREAT SOUTHWEST EQUESTRIAN

CENTER STAFF

GENERAL MANAGER

Sean Brown

EQUINE OPERATIONS MANAGER

Pauline “Cookie” Cook

VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING

Laura Manning

EQUINE MANAGER

Amy Uniss

OFFICE MANAGER

Sharon Rader

ACCOUNTANT

Jane Martinez

MAINTENANCE MANAGER

Ana Vargas

MARKETING ASSISTANT

Irene Molina




ADVISORY BOARD

Elise Beckstett • Nancy Cahill • Joan Cantrell

Chris George • Kate Gibson • Hollis Grace

Marilyn Kulifay • Colleen McQuay • Peter Pletcher

Patty Roberts • Deitra Robertson • Christian Rogge

2501 S. Mason Road, Katy, Texas 77450 281.578.7669 www.gswec.comShow

& T

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R e a l E s t a t e R o u n d u p

WHO:

Deitra Robertson Real Estate, Inc. 979-921-9470

IKnowRanches.com

WHAT:

Stunning stone and stucco 6,734- square-foot custom estate on 6.8 acres. Five bedrooms, nine baths, open kitchen and great room, formal living/dining, library, office, game room, infinity pool/spa, outdoor kitchen, upper and lower outdoor living areas and three-car garage with storage.

WHERE:

Grand Lake Estates 18488 Linda’s Place Montgomery, Texas

WOW:

Five-stall barn (one foaling stall), wash area, grooming area, tack and feed room, storage, bathroom, fly spray system and ceiling fans. Fully fenced arena; two paddocks approx. two acres each; four-horse walker.

WOW AGAIN:

Beautiful lakeside view in a Gary Player golf course community.

Lakeside Equestrian Estate


Lakeside Equestrian Estate

$1.8 mil 6.8 acres with improvementsMontgomery

Montgomery County

Who Owns the Groundwater Beneath Your Land?By Deitra Robertson, ALCAccredited Land ConsultantMember: REALTORS® Land Institute

I recently attended a groundwater seminar sponsored by Texas South-western Cattle Raisers Association

(TSCRA), Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) and Texas Wildlife Association (TWA). For several years I have been tell-ing my farm and ranch clients that water is cause for the next big battle in Texas. And it is. The issue is all about private property rights—something I am passionate about protecting. The National Association of REALTORS® and the REALTORS® Land Institute are working diligently in Washington, D.C., to see that individual’s private property rights are protected from unnecessary, abusive, eminent domain practices and now, groundwater takings in Texas.

Groundwater ownership in Texas is defined by the Absolute Ownership Doctrine, which establishes a property owner’s vested right regarding ground-water beneath his land—a vested “real property” right that keeps ownership in place. The Texas Constitution and more than 100 years of case law sup-port this position.

In 1999 there were only 45 ground-water conservation districts (GWD), and these were primarily located west of the IH-35 corridor. Today there are 96 GWDs covering 144 counties primarily because GWDs stop at county lines but aquifers do not. Reasonable, science-based regulation

for the long-term sustainability of groundwater resources is supported by TSCRA, TWA and TFB.

GWDs must set “desired future condi-tions” that identify how pumped water is regulated and will be regulated years into the future. Who can pump and who cannot? Everyone should have the right, according to the Absolute Own-ership Doctrine.

I could write about this forever, but ask you instead to please visit www.groundwaterownership.com to learn from those more knowledgeable than I. I also encourage you (if you are interested in protecting private

property rights) to read what Todd Staples, Texas Commissioner of Agriculture, has to say at www.protectyourhomeandland.com. These sites will put you “in the know” about issues that are front and center in the Texas legislature and courts.

Many GWDs argue that landowners have no protectable rights regarding groundwater under the Texas constitution.

Bio: Deitra Robertson is the president of Deitra Robertson Real Estate Inc., specializing in farms, ranches, and equestrian properties. Deitra showed horses (hunters) coast to coast for almost 20 years. She rides and trains using natural horsemanship principles with all her horses.


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NRBCA p r i l 5 - 18 , 2 010

S c e n e s F r o m

Hosted by the Great Southwest Equestrian Center

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1. Wimpy’s Little Chic and Shawn Flarida2. Children’s Stick Horse Race3. Rudy Dunit and Tim McQuay4. The Sweet Spot and Bud Lyon5. Stop Like a Dream and Jordan Larson6. Kim Dooley and Country Custom win the

2010 National Reining Breeders Classic Non Pro Championship (also shown on cover)

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All Photos by Waltenberry Photography

December 3-5, 2010

Great Southwest Equestrian Center2501 S. Mason Rd. Katy, TX

Please join us as we celebrate the holiday season and show some of the finest Arabian and Half-Arabian/Anglo-Arabian horses in this part of the country.

Deck the Halls!Don’t miss these special events on Saturday!

• Make a Stick Horse • Stick Horse Class • Creative Costume ClassStick Horse Class at 6:00 p.m. – Create one from 2-4 at our booth in the barn

or bring your own stick horse. This class is judged by Santa!

Classes that will be judged for your enjoyment on Saturday beginning at 6:30 p.m. include: Mounted Native Costume, Western Pleasure, Hunter Pleasure, Country English Pleasure, English Pleasure and Reining.

Show times for the weekend are:

Friday – 9am to noon – in-hand and breeding (halter)Friday – 1pm to 9 pm Saturday – 9am to 4pm Saturday evening – 6:30pm to 9pmSunday - 9am to 3pm

For more information contact Betty at (281) 373-0667 • www.gulfcoastarabians.com

Raising the Bar The 2nd Annual Frank Madden Clinic

Monday & Tuesday, November 15 & 16, 2010Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy Texas EAST ARENA

New This Year - two day clinic pricingSessions will be 3’ Hunter 3’6 Hunter/Equitation3’9” - 4’ Jumper

For more information on pricing and detailsor to make a reservation go to pinoak.org or contact Roxanne Cook at [email protected], 713-621-6290.USHJA Clinic Series

2501 S. Mason Rd., Suite 410, Katy, Texas 77450Pin Oak Charity Horse Show is a 501 ( c ) 3 entity, benefiting Texas Childresn’s Hospital and The Ronald McDonald House Houston Family Rooms

Frank Madden stands out as one of the most successful and dedicated trainers of young and developing show jumping talent in the United States. He has trained several of the most promising junior equitation and junior amateur jumper riders - riders who have the potential to represent the United States at the highest levels of international competition.

Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from one of the all-time great Hunter/Jumper Equitation trainers.

“The theory behind riding is developing a means of communication with words, using your voice, legs, seat and hands to send a message to the horse to do what he needs to do.” – Frank Madden

frankmadden.net

Clinic(both days)

Auditing (both days)

Auditing (either day)

CostPin Oak

ClubMembers

Focus on Frank* n n $750 $735Audit — 1 day ** n $75 -Audit — 1 days ** n $125 -Stalls — 2 days ** $75 -Shavings - per bag $12 -Grounds Fee - per day $20 -

FRANK MADDEN CLINIC PRICING (November 15th - 16th, 2010)

Audit - includes one auditor ticket, choose either one day or both.


Spirit Spurs A&M to Eight National ChampionshipsBy JR Goforth

Texas A&M University in College Station formed its NCAA Divi-sion 1 women’s varsity equestrian

team in 1999. As the team of 60 riders from 22 states began its twelfth season this fall, there were an unbelievable eight A&M national championships in the record books (seven Western cham-pionships and one All-Around). How can a program dominate the sport, and what is the secret to its success?

Winning collegiate sports programs are a combination of great coaches and great players–A&M has both. But wom-en’s equestrian has the added variables

of horses and the challenge of reshaping individual competitors into team players. It’s a 180-degree para-digm shift that, if not made successful-ly, can be the undoing of an equestrian program.

Collegiate Equestrian: A Horse of a Different Color

Girls often begin riding and showing about the same time they start elementary school. Horseback riding is an individual sport where riders are paired with a horse or two that they know and love, own their tack and

trailer, and bond with private trainers. The same horses, the same events, the same trainer, year after year. And prize money is part of it all.

None of this holds true in the sport of collegiate equestrian. For every competition, girls compete with their own teammates for the privilege of showing, ride a horse they’ve never been on before, are encouraged to compete in multiple disciplines, and don’t receive a penny of prize money.

There are four collegiate equestrian disciplines at the varsity level:

The 2010 National Championship Western Team from Texas A&M.

21 Show & Tell Magazine | Vol. 1 No. 2 Winter 2010

equitation on the flat, equitation over fences (based on United States Equestrian Federation standards), Western horsemanship, and reining. The university hosting a competition provides all the horses and tack for the visiting team. Each visiting rider draws the horse she will show using a lottery system. Each rider competes on the horse she has drawn and has less than five minutes to become acquainted with it. Riders from the home team also draw for the same horses. Of the two riders on a given horse, the one who scores the highest earns a point for her team. This system helps level the playing field and gives both teams the same opportunities on the same horses.

Typically, five to eight riders compete in each of the four disciplines. “Riders are selected for each competition based on a combination of factors...,” said Tana McKay, A&M equestrian team head coach. “They usually include who is riding the best, who is the most mentally strong, and (academic) grades.” Alternate riders also make the road trips to away competitions, and the season runs the entire school year (national finals are in April).

“When we host a competition, the girls who aren’t competing are busy with hosting duties such as tack, warming up the horses, and supporting their team members however they can,” McKay said.

Quoting the NCAA Varsity Equestrian website, “In 1998, equestrian was classified as an NCAA emerging sport. Many people within the horse industry have united together to help advance the sport to full NCAA championship status. In order to

attain this goal and hold an NCAA Equestrian Championship, there must be 40 Division I/II schools that sponsor equestrian as a varsity level program. Currently 23 colleges and universities offer equestrian as a varsity sport and more continue to add the program each year.” (NOTE: Varsity equestrian is currently for women only. Men’s teams are not NCAA sanctioned.)

Recipe For Success

A&M has been the overall reserve na-tional champion (both hunter seat and Western) for the last three years. That type of success is difficult to explain with just one word. But, for the sake of this article let’s use “culture,” because the broad and comprehensive term en-compasses many factors. The culture at A&M balances an array of winning influences, then tosses in a little Aggie legend and lore for good measure.

The coaches are a passionate group of former A&M students that has pro-duced the most NCAA Varsity Eques-trian National Championships. Their philosophy, fostered by McKay, is to help team members excel in athletics, academics, and life after A&M. “We’re teaching the students something en-tirely new, so we start with recruiting talented riders, then help them learn to read a horse and catch ride.”

The riders arrive at A&M and must quickly adjust to the possibility of not being chosen to compete, to learning new competition techniques, and to

integrating the almost-daily workout schedule into the new demands of uni-versity academics. “This takes a great deal of mental discipline,” said McKay. “And at the competitions our riders must beat teams on their own horses, which is no small feat.”

The school is consistently ranked among the top ten academic institu-tions in the nation and is in the Top 5 in engineering, business, and pre-med.

The sliding stop is one of the signature moves in the reining

competition, together with circles and spins done at a full lope in

set patterns. Reining is sometimes described as Western dressage

because it, too, requires the horse to be responsive and in

tune with its rider.

The home team enjoys a significant advantage because the riders have trained and practiced on the horses used in the competition.

“We are looking for riders who not only have proper equitation and horseman-ship, but for those who are also functional on any type of horse. The basis of collegiate riding is to award riders based on their ability to successfully ride unfamiliar horses.”

— Tana McKay, head coach

22

Students choose from over 150 majors and 4,000 courses. The $27 million Center for Athletics Academic Services is the premier center of its kind in the country, created to help student athletes become independent and self-reliant learners and empower them to reach their academic and personal goals.

The A&M horses represent one of the best collegiate herds in the country, and they have all been donated to the program. The Western horses are predominately Quarter Horses and have top bloodlines that include Blaz-ing Hot, A Good Machine, Principle Investment, Impulsions, Hollywood Dun It, Smart Little Lena, Colonel Freckles, Nu Bar, and Topsail Cody. The English horses consist of “A” show quality Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds.

The “Spirit of Aggieland,” with all its history and tradition, is virtually unmatched by any other college or university in the United States. “From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it. From the inside looking out, you can’t explain it,” is the school

mantra. In addition, the equestrian parents are a tightly bonded and active bunch of people that call themselves “The Groupies.” Many of the parents continue to support the program even after their daughters have graduated.

“We ride for the Twelfth Man,” Jennifer Scholl, a recently-graduated rider commented. “We are surrounded by teammates and supporters who embrace what we do and make us want to win. We have songs, cheers, special T-shirts, social events, Big/Little Sisters, The Groupies—it’s so different

than competing individually and makes college life so much richer.”

So the secret to A&M’s success? It’s a weapon that exists only in the hearts of Aggies and cannot be duplicated—the spirit of the Twelfth Man.

Author’s Note: As an avid Longhorn supporter, this was a difficult article for me to write, even though the University of Texas does not mount an equestrian team. I confess I had to restrain my Longhorn brand of spirit more than once. But my admiration for this team’s success and the fostering, nurturing, winning atmosphere the coaching staff has created for these girls is something to be saluted. I plan to attend upcoming Aggie competitions and partake in all the songs and festivities as any fan would. Look for me there: I’ll be the one wearing Burnt Orange.

Last year the equestrian team had the highest team GPA of all of the sport teams at Texas A&M.

Bio: "JR" (Janet) Goforth leads a double life as a writer/editor and marketing professional. She's a veteran of the 100-mile Salt Grass Trail. "I'm in it for the horses, but confess to loving cowgirl clothes."

2010 National Championship Reigning Competitors


C o l l e g e C i r c u i t

Making the Team: Recruitment and Tryouts for Varsity EquestrianBy JR Goforth

Jennifer Scholl has ridden and shown at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center since she was

a child. Her mother is also an avid rider, so it was no surprise when the Scholl family decided to pursue collegiate equestrian possibilities for their daughter. Now a graduated member of the Texas A&M University team, Scholl has some advice for teens interested in following in her footsteps.

“The quality of riders at the college level is just amazing, so it’s important for an aspiring rider to begin pursuing her collegiate equestrian goals early,” said Scholl. “It’s important for teens to mar-ket themselves and take advantage of any opportunity to improve their riding.

“There are few recommendations I can offer,” Scholl continued. “First, research the various equestrian programs to find the ones that are the best matches for you. Visit them (unofficially) to determine which ones you like. Then, contact the equestrian coaches

at your favorite schools to learn what information they would like you to send them. This usually involves completing their questionnaire and, the most important part of this process, sending a DVD of you riding and showing as

much versatility as possible. Sometimes you will be lucky and a coach will see you ride at a show but, otherwise, you have to showcase your strengths in a video. Riding different types of horses is essential.”

“We are always looking for talent, and most NCAA schools offer 15 equestrian scholarships. Fortunately, we are allowed to divide them into partial scholarships to help a far greater number of women.” — Tana McKay, Texas A&M head coach

Former Aggie equestrian Jennifer Scholl competed earlier this year at the Kentucky Summer Horse Show

on her horse, About Time.

NCAA Varsity Equestrian Programs

Division 1Auburn UniversityBaylor UniversityBrown University

California State University, FresnoCollege of Charleston

Cornell UniversityDelaware State University

University of GeorgiaKansas State University

New Mexico State UniversityOklahoma State University

Sacred Heart UniversityUniversity of South Carolina

South Dakota State UniversitySouthern Methodist UniversityUniversity of Tennessee, Martin

Texas Christian UniversityTexas A&M University

Division 2University of Minnesota

Pace UniversitySeton Hill

Stonehill CollegeWest Texas A&M University

Photo by Shawn McMillen


Sweeping Tax Changes to Affect High Income HouseholdsBy William Chris Mathers, CPA

As many individuals struggle to recover from one of the worst recessions this country

has ever experienced, Congress has passed the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, which brings sweeping tax changes that will affect most Americans. While the bill does contain certain tax benefits for employers, individuals could be adversely affected.

This bill is massive and broad reaching and, consequently, the newly enacted tax changes are all designed in an attempt to fund the bill. Unless Congress decides to extend the soon-to-expire tax cuts enacted by the Bush-era administration, a massive tax burden will ensue that reduces income for millions, including the middle class.

In fact, the Big Four accounting firms recently estimated that if the Bush-era tax cuts were allowed to expire, taxes on the middle class would increase by approximately 4.5%. The changes to the tax law will be phased in over several years, so let’s go through some of the highlights and the years they become effective.

Dividends

This year (2010) will be the last year that dividends will be taxed at a lower rate. The new, higher dividend tax rate affects not only high-income earners but also the middle class. Beginning in 2011, the new tax rates for all divi-dends will be taxed at the taxpayer’s marginal income tax rate. In other words, qualified dividends no longer will be taxed at 15% but, instead, all dividends will be taxed upwards to 39.6%, depending on the taxpayer’s marginal tax rate.

Capital Gains

Whether you invest in stocks, mutual funds, or real estate, the favorable tax treatment of capital gains benefits us all. In 2003 President Bush cut the long-term capital gains tax rate to 15%-5% for those individuals in the 10% and 15% tax brackets. If Congress

lets the Bush-era tax cuts “sunset,” the long-term capital gains tax rate will increase to 20%. Short-term capital gains have always been taxed at the ordinary income tax rates. No change here.

The Big Unknown

The estate tax is coming back, but to what degree is yet to be seen. For 2010 there is no estate tax, but in 2011 it will once again be an unwel-come guest. Congress is still debating the tax rate and the exclusion amount, but the general consensus is the estate tax will return with a rate of 55% and an exclusion of $1,000,000.

Marginal Income Tax Rates

For 2010, the highest marginal income tax rate is 35% on taxable income over $373,650 for married couples filing a joint return. In 2011 the marginal tax rate increases to 39.6% on taxable

M o n e y M a t t e r s

“... I recommend you consult your CPA for tax planning advice and strategy to ensure you effectively navigate your way through the maze of new tax changes.” — William Chris Mathers, CPA


income over $380,500 for married couples filing a joint return. There are no proposed changes to the standard deduction and personal exemption for 2011.

The Big Hit

As most of you reading this probably already know, beginning in 2013 there will be an additional Medicare hospital insurance (HI) tax of 2.35% on com-bined wages in excess of $250,000 for joint filers, thus making the combined HI tax on combined wages equal to 3.8%. Furthermore, if you are a self-employed individual, no deduction will be allowed on page one of your 1040 for one half of self-employment tax for the additional 2.35% tax.

Additionally, and beginning in 2013, the 3.8% tax also will apply to net investment income (passive income) over the $250,000 threshold for joint filers, which includes interest, dividends, annuities, royalties, rent, and the disposition of property other than property held in a trade or business.

Information Disclosure Regarding Foreign Financial Assets (New Code Section 6038D)

Under prior law, every person who had a financial interest in, or signature or other authority over, certain financial accounts in a foreign country was required to disclose such information if the aggregate value of the accounts exceeded $10,000. The report

was made on Form TD F 90-22.1, commonly referred to as the “FBAR.” Because FBAR filing requirements arose under the Bank Secrecy Act and not the Internal Revenue Code, collection of delinquent penalties (non-willful violations of $10,000 per violation and the greater of $100,000 or 50% of the amount in the account for willful violations) could be accomplished only through court proceedings.

Under the new law, and beginning this year, FBAR reporting for any individual who, during the taxable year, holds any interest in a “specified foreign financial asset” shall attach certain required information to the individual’s income tax return for each asset if the aggregate value of all such foreign assets exceeds $50,000. The new income tax return re-porting requirement does not substitute for compliance with the FBAR reporting requirements on Form TD F 90-22.1, which remain unchanged.

These “certain” assets include any financial account maintained by a foreign financial institution, any stock or security issued by a person other than a United States citizen, any financial instrument or contract held for investment that has an issuer or counterparty other than a United States citizen, and any interest in a foreign entity. An individual is not required to disclose interests under these rules that are held in a custodial account with a U.S. financial institution.

In a Nutshell

The preceding information is, of course, only a small sampling of the provisions contained within the new, 2,900-plus-page Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act. As a wise individual once said, “Tax cuts are temporary; tax increases are permanent.” And with more information contained in this bill than one can wrap their arms around, I recommend you consult your CPA for tax planning advice and strategy to ensure you effectively navigate your way through the maze of new tax changes. If you have questions with any of the provisions found in the new bill, I also am available to help.

IRS Circular 230 Disclaimer: To ensure com-

pliance with IRS Circular 230, any U.S. federal

tax advice provided in this communication is not

intended or written to be used, and it cannot be

used by the recipient or any other taxpayer (i)

for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that

may be imposed on the recipient or any other

taxpayer, or (ii) in promoting, marketing or

recommending to another party a partnership

or other entity, investment plan, arrangement or

other transaction addressed herein.

Bio: William Chris Mathers has been a CPA since 1984 special-izing in entertainment business management and taxation.

Texas Ag Tax Exemptions at a GlanceAn agricultural exemption is an assessment based on land’s productivity value rather than market value, which typically lowers property taxes. Land must meet the following criteria for exemption:

1. Land must be devoted principally to producing crops, livestock (including horses), poultry, fish, or cover crops.

2. Land must be used for wildlife management in at least three of seven specified ways to propagate wild animals for human use.

3. Agricultural/wildlife activities must be at a level that is common in the area for at least five of the past seven years.

These complex laws carry severe penalties. For more information contact your county agriculture appraiser and county agent.


Two boys frolic past the in-gate at a horse show, laughing and carrying on, seemingly in their

own little world. Shocks of dirty blonde hair flop over their near-identical faces, and each wide smile is accented by a set of braces. They could easily be mis-taken for someone’s cantankerous little brothers that got dragged out to a horse show for the weekend (OK, so they are someone’s little brothers…), but don’t be fooled by this fun-loving duo.

Meet Spencer and Jackson Brittan, 12-year-old twins from Dallas who

Twins Spencer and Jackson Brittan light up the Texas

horse show sceneBy Alexandra Beckstett


have rocketed onto the female-dominated hunter/jumper scene in the past few years. The lively pair might be a laugh a minute around the barn, but they take their equine past time very seri-ously.

The Brittan boys decided to follow in the footsteps of 14-year-old equestri-enne sister, Kelsie, nearly four years ago when the family purchased a horse farm in Westlake, outside of Dal-las. With their backyard suddenly a barnyard, hopping in the saddle was a natural progression for Spencer and

Jackson, who love and participate in a variety of sports and activities.

Now the boys compete in both the pony hunter and children’s jumper divisions but, surprisingly, there is not one competitive bone between Spencer and Jackson.

“They are attached at the hip and very supportive of each other,” said their mother, Kristin Brittan. “They just smile all day long, and they never have bad attitudes. They’re not the type that would be competitive.”

They are, however, protective over their mounts—neither lets the other ride his horses.

Their trainer, Peter Pletcher, who is based outside Houston in Magnolia and meets up with the family at shows, agrees. “If they have a bad round they’ll be upset for maybe five minutes and then they’re back to all laughs again,” he said. “Around the barn and at shows they’re always joking around with ev-eryone and anyone that will listen.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28


Although Pletcher has only worked with Spencer and Jackson for a year, the trainer and the twins are like three peas in a pod. “They fit in perfectly with Peter and his personality,” said Kristin of her sons. “It’s always a three-ring circus with them because they’re all the same, and Peter is like a little kid.”

“They’re like a breath of fresh air to teach because they’re happy about everything,” Pletcher added. “They’re happy to learn, they’re happy if they make a mistake and they figure it out—they’re just super fun that way.”

Beyond Their Years

Three of the four Brittan children (there’s a third brother, Clayton, who is 11 and an avid polo player) have been homeschooled throughout their aca-demic careers. This not only allows the young equestrians to plan their school-ing around their riding, but it also has given them an extra level of maturity. Their friends and barnmates often comment that the boys’ demeanors, as well as their signature sense of humor, are mature beyond their years.

“They are mature for their age,” com-mented Pletcher. “I think a lot of it is that they’re homeschooled. I’ve had a lot of kids that have acted a lot older than they are because of that.”

Pletcher has found a lot of joy teach-ing the twins since they began show-ing with him in 2009 (he did, however, spend several months learning to tell them apart). He quickly realized there’s more to them than their goofy antics.

“Like with Spencer, if you’re teaching him and say, ‘that’s good’ or ‘that was great,’ he’ll look and say, ‘Thank you.’ Every single time,” said Pletcher.

A spectator at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Fla., had a similar impression of the twins while observing them throughout the horse show. She approached Spencer and Jackson and told them how mannerly and well-behaved she thought they were. The boys immediately struck up a conversation and rattled off tidbits about how they lived on a farm, were homeschooled, and rode horses all day. “We have a good life,” they told her.

“I was so happy to hear they appreci-ate their life,” said Kristin Brittan. “They were nine years old at the time, and

they realized what they had and were appreciative.”

Kristin attributes the boys’ natural ma-turity and manners to both their South-ern upbringing and their homeschool-ing. “If you ask me, they’re just not exposed to many negative influences, bad examples, and bad behavior,” she said.

Spencer and Jackson also don’t pass up a chance to give back to the com-munity. In the jumper ring, for instance, they wear Step by Step Foundation show jackets and donate all their winnings to the charity, which benefits schoolchildren in Haiti.

Besides sports, Spencer and Jackson, along with their other two siblings, play piano and are quite musically talented. In fact, the three Brittan brothers have formed a band among themselves. Jackson plays drums, Spencer plays the electric guitar, and Clayton plays the bass guitar.

The threesome won a battle of the bands contest recently as miniature versions of Guns N’ Roses. “It was hilarious,” said Kristin. “They were in full costume and one was Slash.”

If nothing else, it’s obvious the two young riders have an easygoing sense of humor and know how to combine hard work with great fun.

As Pletcher summed them up: “They are deep-down boys, plain and simple.”

“They are deep-down boys, plain and simple.”

— Peter Pletcher Spencer and Jackson’s trainer

Outside the Show Ring

Spencer and Jackson spend, on aver-age, six days a week in the saddle, but that doesn’t mean they don’t find time for their other hobbies. They ride be-tween morning and afternoon sessions of homeschooling, but they also enjoy baseball, polo, and all things music.

They play baseball on and off, but the ballgame the boys are really into is paintball. “They have paintball wars all the time,” said Kristin.

The boys also play polo, with high hopes of earning Ivy League polo scholarships since NCAA collegiate

equestrian programs are female-only. “We’ve been encouraging it,” said Kristin, “since there’s no male NCAA riding. So we said, ‘Pick up a polo stick,’ and they ended up loving it.”

Spencer and Jackson might be small in stature, but that hasn’t hindered their innate polo skills. They spent the last year taking lessons and learning the ins and outs of the game, and they plan to start playing in actual matches in the coming year.

“It’s exciting for them,” said Kristin with a laugh, “The boys get to gallop 100 miles per hour and hit things.”


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LONGACREHUNT

Y es Virginia, there is foxhunting in Texas. In fact, Texas is host to several foxhunting establishments. Perhaps the availability of land draws interest here, or the Lone Star’s diverse

population allows new interest to take hold. Either way, Tomball-based Longacre Hunt is honored to be part of a centuries-old tradition and to take responsibility for carrying that tradition forward.Foxhunting is a cross-country pursuit of game in which a trained pack of hounds (not to be confused with dogs) is sent into an area to explore for an animal’s scent. On a good day, a hound picks up a scent and “speaks” to let the other hounds know of his find. The other hounds will then “open” (pick up the scent) and the hounds, hunts-man, and mounted riders will “honor” the strike hound, and the chase is on.

The object of foxhunting is not to catch the fox or coyote, but instead to find,

see, and follow the game while enjoy-ing the wide-open spaces, the work of the hounds, the cross-country riding, and the company of others. Foxhunt-ing is a sport that can be enjoyed by mounted riders as well as those ob-serving from the ground or in vehicles.

History of the HuntLongacre Hunt was founded in 1993 through the efforts of Ruth O’Hara and received recognition from the

Master of Foxhounds Association in 1995. Ruth recognized the call for foxhunting in Central Texas and thus began the story of Longacre Hunt.

Longacre Hunt began at Lone Oak Ranch in Marquez, Texas, where Ruth and her husband, Art Preston, raised Thoroughbreds. Ruth rode to the hounds at Lone Oak Ranch faithfully until her untimely death in 1999. Loyalty and dedication to Ruth along with the spirit of the hunt led three of her staff mem-bers to carry on with Longacre Hunt.

Tally Ho!

Photo courtesy of Agapito Sanchez


LONGACREHUNT

Foxhunters on Quintana Beach

After Ruth’s death, Art Preston released the management of the hounds to the McLain family, who hosted the hunt on their property in Flynn, Texas, until 2006. At that time, although still ac-tive in the hunt, the McLains passed the management of the hounds to John and Marcia deLeyer, who relocated the ken-nel operations to their hunter-jumper facility, North Fork Farm, in Tom-ball, Texas, where they reside today.

Longacre’s hunt territory is a mixture of open, rolling fields and moderate- to heavily-wooded tracts with creeks throughout. The jumps consist of coops and natural elements; however, most are optional.

Foxhunting requires a lot of territory and would not be possible without the generosity of landowners such as Mark and Suzanne Ivey. Hunts often are held on their 3,000-acre Flying I Ranch

near Dobbin in Montgomery County. Due to hot and humid climate condi-tions, hunting in Texas generally takes

place from October through March, with cubbing (training of the younger hounds) occurring from late August to

mid-October. Hunts are typically held every two weeks, with an average at-tendance of 20-35 riders and numer-ous nonriders who join in the fun via foot and automobile. Most riders hail from the Houston area, with others traveling from San Antonio, Austin, Madisonville, Lufkin, and as far away as England.

In 2006 Longacre tried out a new con-cept and hunted at Quintana Beach. John deLeyer had hunted on the beach in his youth with the Smithtown Hunt on Long Island and decided to intro-duce that practice to the Longacre Hunt. The annual beach hunt has since become a favorite with members and guests. What a thrill to have hounds and horses galloping full-speed ahead with waves sounding and sand flying!


“Longacre Hunt is proud to have multiple families that ride together—kids alongside their parents.”

Longacre Hunt brings tradition, camaraderie, and the excitement of the chase to North Houston


A Collection of Equestrians

Longacre Hunt is comprised of rid-ers from various backgrounds includ-ing lawyers, engineers, accountants, school teachers, moms, dads, and more. Their horses are representative of all breeds and disciplines. Longacre mounts are ex-racehorses, show jump-ers, eventers, trail horses, cattle horses, and backyard ponies. Breeds include Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, draft horses, and other mixtures both large and small. One common element the members all share is the desire to ride and enjoy the countryside and the ca-maraderie of those around them. The hunt is not only about the hounds and the horses, but the time spent enjoying each other’s company.

Managing the hounds is a year-round undertaking and requires the support of the entire staff and its members. The current Masters of Foxhounds (MFH) are John deLeyer, Susie McLain, and Sam Judge. The MFH oversees all aspects of the hunt and is the liaison between the landowners and the Mas-ter of Foxhounds Association.

Emily Dewing is the Honorary Huntsman and is the person who works closest with the hounds. She carries the horn and guides the hounds in a day of hunting by sending them

where she believes hunting will be most productive. She was introduced to the hunt as a junior in 2003 and has become an integral member, devoting countless hours to working and caring for the hounds. The love and respect between the huntsman and hounds is evident at all times.

The job of the whippers-in is to control and guide the hounds in the field.

They often ride alone, scouting the countryside and staying alert to the movement of game and the hounds. They turn the hounds back to the huntsman or main pack or send them forward in pursuit of game. Tammy Wincott and Bob Broomhall are whippers-in. Andreas and Michaela deLeyer are junior whippers-in.

Other staff members include Gina Sanderson, secretary and fieldmaster; Marcia deLeyer, second fieldmaster; and Morgan Sanderson, junior kennelman. During the 2009-2010 hunt season, Longacre Hunt had 27 members, many of whom care for the hounds, work on the trails, and build jumps. In addition to the

members, about 50 non-members were involved with the hunt last year.

One of the things noticeable about the hunt at first glance is the number of junior riders. Longacre Hunt is proud to have multiple families that ride to-gether—kids alongside their parents. Several juniors began riding at age seven and are now in their teens, con-tributing their time behind the scenes. Foxhunting’s future is in the hands of the youth, and the hunt is inspired by its many committed junior riders.

By far the most important members of Longacre Hunt are the hounds: they number approximately 14 couples (foxhounds are counted in twos, re-gardless of sex) of American, Cross-bred, and Penn-Mary Del breeding. Hounds are bred for the country and the type of game they hunt. The Lon-gacre hounds need speed, durability, and a good cold-nose to pick up scent

in Texas’ hot, dry climate. Foxhounds are gentle, affectionate, and learn quickly to value family life. Hounds that have grown too old to hunt or do not fit into the pack are often available for adoption and make good pets.

And They’re Off!

A typical hunt starts around 10 a.m., and riders and horses gather shortly before the designated hunt time at the fieldmaster’s direction. The pulse of adrenaline in the air is palpable. The riders are divided into “fields,” with the faster riders going in “first flight” and those who want to ride at a slower pace in “second flight.” Often a toast, known as the “stirrup cup” is

“It is the perfect way to test my riding skills...” — Longacre member

Photo courtesy of Lesley Humphrey

Photo courtesy of Alex Dumestre


offered. The hounds are unloaded and gathered by the huntsman and the whippers-in. Upon signal from the Master, the huntsman will blow the horn and the hounds are off.

The fieldmaster rides at the head of the field behind the huntsman, hounds, and whippers-in and tries to keep the field close to the action without interfering with the hounds. He also attempts to keep the field safe by avoiding known hazards and is always on the lookout for surprises. The whippers-in, meanwhile, control the hounds from the perimeters; the Master orchestrates the staff. Horsemen and hounds travel at different speeds over the course for approximately two hours, with occasional breaks for horse, rider, and hound. Longacre generally is not stopped by weather and rather, hunts in all elements. If the hounds have a difficult time picking up a scent, a “drag” (fox scent that is drug

over predetermined terrain) is laid down, which the hounds then “hunt.” At the end of the hunt, some riders might return clean while others will be covered head-to-toe in mud. An unlucky few might be wet from a horse that tried to cool himself in a creek.

After tending to horse and hound, rid-ers often sit down to a light meal or tailgate and relive the excitement of the hunt, with the tales growing larger as the hunt is remembered.

One of Longacre’s members described what she likes most about foxhunting: “It is the perfect way to test my riding skills and my horse’s physical and mental capabilities in the company of

confident, supportive riders who ride for the sheer love of the sport. There are no judges and no final scores. There are no barriers between riding disciplines, horse breeds, rider age or gender. There is nothing like the sound of the horn, cry of the hounds, and the thundering of hoofs to make a great day!”

It is the people involved and their dedication to the sport that keep foxhunting alive. Longacre Hunt

extends a welcome to all who would like to experience the thrill and the excitement of foxhunting to come

join them for a day. For more information visit Longacrehunt.com or call John deLeyer at 281-351-1361.

The hunt looks forward to seeing old faces and meeting new ones this season. Tally Ho!

Photo courtesy of Lesley Humphrey

FROM THEGROUND

UPBy Alexandra Beckstett

Meagan Dean described her first Western showmanship win this year with enthusiasm.

She had grown accustomed to set-tling for fourth- and fifth-place ribbons and didn’t realize she had captured the blue until three other classes had passed and been pinned.

There are several extraordinary things about Dean and Hesa Country Hotrod’s (“Rodney”) recent victory: For one, the horse is only four years old. And Dean, 20, had only just begun competing in the 19 and over division. She also performs showmanship from the seat of an electric scooter. That’s right, Dean is paralyzed from the waist down, but that doesn’t stop her from thinking and winning big.

The Madisonville, Texas, native was horse-crazy as any young girl growing up. At age nine she received horse-back riding lessons for Christmas that led to competing in barrel racing and gaming events that led to owning a horse of her very own. But four months after Dean, then 13, got her first horse, Tumbleweed, she was involved in a car accident in which she suffered severe abdominal and back injuries. She had

been slated to go to her first horse show with Tumbleweed in two weeks.

“It really put a damper on my spirits,” she said, “But I tried not to let it keep me down for too long.”

Ironically, Dean had been interested in volunteering for a therapeutic rid-ing program long before she, herself, became a candidate for hippotherapy. While sitting in her hospital room one day after the accident she saw an ad-vertisement on television for one such riding program. “It jogged my memo-ry, and I thought, ‘Hey, that’s an idea—maybe I don’t have to stop riding.’ ” Dean recalled.

Back in the Saddle

The road to recovery and riding again was a long one—several years, in fact. But along with therapeutic riding, Tumbleweed helped Dean with that process. “He was a little bit of a motivational animal because I always looked forward to coming home to him,” she said. “It really helped me heal mentally because I knew I would always go back home and he would be there.”

However, by the time Dean was free from hospital beds and surgery rooms she had outgrown her little Quarter Horse. She asked her father, “Daddy, can you get me a paint broodmare?”

What father could say no? A fan of flashy paint horses, Dean now has four paints stabled at the property she lives on with her parents: two mares and two foals.

“I have this little dream that I’m going to be a big paint breeder one day,” she said. “I’m setting my goals really high but I want to learn a lot about breeding in general.”

Dean has received loads of hands-on experience training her young horses.

“It definitely makes you think that you shouldn’t complain about anything, because she never does.” — Nancy Cahill, Dean’s trainer


She hopes one day the foals will be steady steeds that other disabled riders can use. “They are comfortable around someone in a wheelchair because I go out into the pasture on a scooter,” she said. “They’re not afraid of something like that because they’ve been around it all their lives.”

But messing with the “babies” isn’t the only aspect of her horses’ lives she’s involved with. Dean is as active as any horse owner, turning horses out,

grooming them, doing barn chores—even piloting a truck and trailer.

“You see her drive up in her own truck, get out by herself, get her wheelchair out of the back, roll into to the barn, get her horse, tie him up, brush him off… it’s pretty amazing,” said Nancy Cahill, who trains Dean and houses her horses.

“I think that surprised a lot of people,” Dean added. “Because even after I was

injured I still wanted to be involved. My parents have just kind of learned to step back, and when I need help I’ll ask for it. But I’ll disappear out to our barn for hours at a time!”

Heartbreak to Happiness

One horse that doesn’t call Dean’s fam-ily farm home is her steel grey show-manship mount, Rodney. He came into Dean’s life after the seasoned thera-peutic riding horse she had bought so she could start showing again. Unfortunately, “Zip” foundered and had to be put down. “Of all the horses to founder, why him?” recalled Cahill.

Naturally, after such heartbreak, Dean had to take a few months away from riding. When she approached Cahill about finding her another horse, she didn’t have high expectations. After all, Zip was irreplaceable, right?

Cahill was soon contacted by Reid Thomas, of Corpus Christi, who said he had a three-year-old he thought would be perfect for Dean. “He’s kind of an unusual three-year-old,” Thomas told her. While safely carrying

Meagan Dean might fall into the category of disabled rider, but she’s more hands-on than most equestrians.


Photo by Breanna Jones


a handicapped rider seemed a ques-tionable task for such a young horse, Cahill knew Thomas wouldn’t lead her astray. So Rodney arrived at Ca-hill’s, hardly blinked at Dean’s wheel-chair (or the umbrellas they opened, or the baby buggies they circled him with), and quickly captured her heart.

“He turned out not to care if we threw Meagan over him like that (she mounts via a specially-designed ramp that lifts the wheelchair nearly over the horse’s head),” Cahill said. “Some horses are kind of born that way I guess.”

Dean describes her young partner as easygoing but always on-the-go. “We’ll be at a show waiting to go in the ring, and he’ll be pawing like, ‘OK, let’s go, let’s go!’ ” she said. “He still has some baby moments but he’s a re-ally laid-back guy. He likes to take care of the people he’s around.”

Dean and Rodney show at least once a month in Western showmanship and halter classes. Whereas the halter division judges the horse on his con-formation, movement, and turnout, showmanship scores not only the horse but the person on how well he or she handles the horse and makes him per-form a pattern.

“To be able to do this on a big clunky scooter with a horse who has done this with me maybe 10 times is pretty excit-ing,” said Dean.

Beyond barn doors Dean attends Blinn College in Bryan, where she studies animal science and hopes to transfer next year to Sam Houston State and pursue equine science as well. She also gives her time to the local animal

shelter and is in the process of hav-ing a house and barn built on a plot of recently-purchased horse property. When she’s not (and perhaps when she is) out romping with her colts or perfecting Rodney’s showmanship piv-ot, Dean enjoys photography and web design, which she hopes someday to make a part-time job.

“I’m pretty excited to be able to in-crease my skills and one day open up a little business to some friends and family,” she said.

Dean already has received requests to photograph people at horse shows and organize photo shoots of horses at friends’ barns. Don’t be surprised if you spot her colorful images and painted ponies around the state some-time soon.

“She is one busy girl,” said Cahill. “She goes on as any normal kid in the world would. It’s just an inspiration to all.”

Bio: Alexandra Beckstett is the features editor of The Horse mag-azine and writes for a number of equine magazines. Originally from Magnolia, Texas, she cur-rently lives in Lexington, Ky., and enjoys working with her two young warmbloods.

“I have this little dream that I’m going to be a big paint breeder one day.” — Meagan Dean

March 23 – April 3, 2011Great Southwest Equestian Center, Houston, Texas

The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show is a 501 ( c ) 3 not for profit entity, Learn how you can get involved at pinoak.org

Benefiting Texas Children’s Hospital and Houston’s Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms

Presented byWe thank our generous sponsors for making this

event possible.

Presented by

STEP UP & STEP OUTfor Children


Modern

A native Texan, Christopher Mayes was born in the Panhandle, educated at The University of Texas in Austin, then became a respected graphic artist in Houston. He now paints and sculpts from a studio at Canyon Lake amidst many Hill Country ranches.


By JR Goforth

Moderna

Edge

TEXAS FLAG ART:

I hadn’t seen Christopher Mayes in years. Back in the late ‘80’s he was a respected member of Houston’s graphic design community and when Houston designers

were showing New York and L.A. how it should be done, our connection was through Houston Home & Garden and Houston Metropolitan magazines. So it was serendipitous that our reunion now was for Show & Tell, another glossy, high-quality lifestyle magazine.Mayes and I met up in Great Southwest Equestrian Center’s (GSWEC) beautiful Arena Club, where he was supervising the installation of his incredible Texas Flag Art collection, now on exhibit in the club. As the invigorating paintings were hung and—one by one—trans-formed the club into a proud Texas enclave, we reminisced about “back then,” discussed “the here and now,” and mused about future “what ifs.” But most of all we talked about the paintings.

Only in Texas

Each painting starts with the iconic sim-plicity of the Texas flag, which Mayes then embellishes with traditional fine art techniques. That juxtaposition, in concert with the mystique of our be-loved state flag, makes the collection classically timeless and universally popular among Texans.

In preparation for meeting the artist,



I viewed representations of the paint-ings on his website (www.texasflagart.com) and in a brochure, but, like seeing a historic landmark for the first time, it is difficult to imagine how impressive each one is until you are standing in front of it. I urge you to see for your-self at the Arena Club during your next visit to GSWEC.

Because there are so many pieces in the series and the styles are so wildly different, deciding “which one do I like best?” becomes a challenge in and of itself. In the end I could only narrow it down to two paintings … and that took some intense scrutiny and self-control.

An Artist’s Artist

Rather than ask Mayes which painting is his fa-vorite, I asked him which artists he admires. With-out hesitation he answered, “The Masters.” As we walked the Arena Club gallery, it was delightful to see how he paid homage to several of

them in his diverse treatments of our Lone Star. Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso … the unmistakable influences and references were all there in vivid red, white, and blue. Even Warhol inspired one of the latest pieces (Big Texas Four) in the series.

Many of Mayes’ flag paintings (the series originated in 2005) now reside in the collections of some very famous Texans, adorn the walls of historic Texas inns, and hang in the homes of regular folks, too.

A Harris County judge purchased one for his chambers and then decided it was too inspirational not to be shared. So he purchased a second one for the jury room in his court as a special “thank you” to the citizens who give their time in service to the community.

“It’s surprising how many requests I get from outside the state,” Mayes told me. But it’s not surprising to me. It only confirms my theory: Once a Texan, always a Texan. The geography of where we find ourselves is pretty inci-dental to our state of mind (pun un-ashamedly intended).

The Rest of the Story

Lest you think Chris Mayes is a one-trick pony, think again. Flag art is just one item in his bag of talent tricks. For his wife’s birthday this year he completed a rock sculpture garden. “My friends say I need a rock intervention,” Mayes joked out loud. I replied, “Whaaaaat?” Turns out the artist also is an accomplished rock-garden designer, living up there in the Hill Country where the medium is plentiful. “After having lived on Houston clay for so long, it was like being a kid at Disneyland for the

“I’ve never loved Texas more, and this newest work reflects that.” — Christopher

Owning a Mayes Texas FlagEach creation is a hand-painted original and available for purchase.

The larger pieces on exhibit in the GSWEC Arena Club typically sell for $2,800 - $3,600 but are specially priced at $2,300 for Show & Tell readers. The public may view the art during any of the horse shows and each weekend now through the end of December. The Tex-as Children’s Hospital Arena Club will be open during show hours. Check the local show office at GSEC for details.

Specific pieces or new works can be commissioned, including art that features equestrian activities.

[email protected]

830-964-6084

What could possibly make the Texas state flag even more Texana? Authentic ranch brands, of course. Mayes spent countless hours researching brands throughout the state. Do you see yours?

Texas Brands 40" x 30"


first time when I realized how much limestone could be mined with just a Bobcat in a few hours.”

On the horizon, Mayes plans to create a Texas flag from indigenous rocks on a sizable spread of land. He’ll color the rocks with natural substances and then photograph the finished “flag” from the air. I thought the rock flag could become a tourist attraction or something others could commission to have done on their properties throughout the state. Are we destined to see … ?

At the other end of the spectrum, Mayes continues to produce sophisticated, award-winning graphic design and illustrations for corporate clients—the proof is at www.chrismayes.net. Been to Ruggles Grill or Ruggles Green, both in Houston? Mayes created the logos.

To give his fertile mind a respite and to recharge his imagination, Mayes kayaks on Canyon Lake, hikes nearby Enchanted Rock, and pursues mastery of his 11-string slide guitar (seems that darn twelfth string just kept breaking, so its presence was no longer deemed necessary). The man knows how to relax. And paint.

The artist’s love of the masters is evident in

several of Mayes’ flags. For instance, Monet in Texas Landscape

and Van Gogh in Lone Starry Night.

The artist’s Canyon Lake studio features a rock sculpture garden he designed for his

wife, Colleen. It’s made of all local materials.

Texas Landscape 40” x 30”

Lone Starry Night 67” x 51”


C h a n g eTa l k A r o u n d T e x a s

Can Slot Machines Help the Texas Horse World?By JR Goforth

If you’re not familiar with the good work of Texas HORSE (Horse Organizations Racing Showing

Eventing), this is an ideal time to get up-to-speed. The regular session of the Texas legislature is just around the corner (beginning in January 2011) and HORSE will be leading the charge for a proposed bill that could benefit people and animals involved in virtually every facet of Texas’ horse world.

HORSE is backing legislative lan-guage that is peppered with the buzz-word “VLT” (video lottery terminal). In Texas-speak this means slot machines at racetracks. This bill that was left “pending” by the 2009 legislature will, if HORSE has its way, positively impact those of us involved in other areas of

the horse industry. So it’s time to listen up and, if you’re so inclined, maybe even get involved.

VLT revenue is a very large issue, but it has one single component that at-

tracts our interest: the Performance Horse Development Fund. This fund is a revenue stream to funnel a por-tion of the newly-generated VLT money to nonracing breeds and disciplines that make grant application requests. Grant-eligible groups and activities would include (but are not limited to):

• Supplemented prize money for shows (including hunter / jumper)

• Equine seminars and clinics• Cutting, reining, team roping

“The opportunity to get involved is NOW to stimulate reining, showing, breeding … everyone who participates in events at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center will benefit from the passage of this legislation.” — Sandy Currie, Currie Equine Clinic


• Western recreational riding (trail rides) and eventing (rodeos)

• Scholarships for students and organization youth (4-H and FFA)

• Horse recreational development• Urban youth equine programs

Installing VLTs at Texas tracks will convert the facilities into the “racinos” pioneered and proven successful in other states. There is considerable support for the VLTs from many different factions and for many different reasons.

However, only the Performance Horse Development Fund, heralded by Texas HORSE, will extend the benefits of the new income to a broad range of Texas horse industry segments.

To learn more, volunteer, sign a petition, become an advocate, or otherwise lend support to the movement, visit Texashorseweb.com or contact Texas HORSE Executive Director Valerie Clark, [email protected] or 512-731-4637.

“We must focus on the 2010 elections and 2011 legislative session for our next chance to help racing, showing and breeding horses in our state.” — Tommy Hays, DVM Elgin Veterinary Hospital

Texas HORSE (Horse Organizations Racing Showing Eventing)

The Largest Coalition of Horse Organizations in Texas

American Paint Horse AssociationAmerican Quarter Horse AssociationNational Cutting Horse AssociationTexas Arabian Breeders AssociationTexas Horsemen’s PartnershipTexas Paint Horse Breeders AssociationTexas Quarter Horse AssociationTexas Thoroughbred Association


T e x a s C h i l d r e n ’ s H o s p i t a l

By Sandra Bretting

Most young children first encounter balloons during birthday parties or at

fairgrounds. But at two years old, Jacob Harris of Katy was introduced to balloons under a much different circumstance. In 2002 a cardiologist at Texas Children’s Hospital inserted a small balloon into Jacob’s aorta—the main artery leaving the heart—to open it up and give the toddler’s circulatory system some relief.

Jacob was born in 2000, but his pediatrician didn’t detect a heart problem until the child’s three-month check-up. The doctor then discovered a heart murmur, but decided to wait and see if Jacob would outgrow it. When it became obvious the boy would not, he was admitted to Texas Children’s Hospital and scheduled for an angioplasty (widening a narrowed or obstructed blood vessel via balloon catheter) in the fall of 2002.

“Jacob had what’s called an aortic coarctation, which means a narrowing of the artery,” said Jeff Dreyer, MD, Jacob’s cardiologist and medical director of the cardiac transplant program at Texas Children’s. “His heart could pump blood to his upper torso and head, but not as well to his extremities and lower body.”

Dreyer continued, “During the angioplasty, one of our interventional cardiologists inserted a balloon

catheter into Jacob’s aorta and inflated it to open up the narrowing. This method proved successful with less trauma to Jacob than a traditional surgical procedure, and Jacob has done remarkably well.”

While his heart condition has improved dramatically, Jacob still must have follow-up care as an outpatient.

“We’re particularly worried about infections, and it’s something we don’t mess around with,” said Marion Harris, Jacob’s mother. “He developed an infection in his left leg last Thanksgiving, and sure enough, it quickly became serious. I drove him to the emergency room at Texas Children’s and within minutes they had him hooked up to intravenous antibiotics.”

Soon, parents like Marion will be able to access the same first-class care found at Texas Children’s Hospital in the Texas Medical Center much closer to their homes. In spring of 2011 Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus will open a full-service pediatric emergen-cy center in Katy, complete with every-thing doctors and nurses will need to treat young victims of accidents and illnesses. In addition, the new hospital will open its first inpatient unit with 48 beds. An additional 48 beds will follow at a later date.

Prior to that, in December of this year, the hospital will open for outpatient services. Everything from cancer care to cardiology services will be offered, including more than a dozen specialty outpatient services.

“Our new West Campus will provide families greater access to the same unsurpassed standard of care for which Texas Children’s Hospital is internationally recognized,” said Mark A. Wallace, president and chief executive officer of Texas Children’s Hospital.

“We’re excited to build a hospital for the community’s children.” — Michelle Riley-Brown, V.P. and project leader

The Heart of the Matter


For the Harris family, that means Jacob can receive his annual MRIs and echo-cardiograms much closer to home.

“Jacob will always need to have heart check-ups, so having the hospital close by will be a blessing,” Marion Harris said. “And it’s a relief to know the best emergency care is right around the corner if Jacob does develop an infec-tion and we need care quickly.”

“We’re excited to build a hospital for the community’s children,” said Mi-chelle Riley-Brown, vice president of Texas Children’s Hospital West Cam-pus. “We’ll have an innovative healing environment for all children and fami-lies living west of Houston.”

“When Jacob had to stay in the hos-pital, I had no doubt he would get the very best care,” Marion Harris said. “Now it’s nice to know that care will be available right here in West Houston, where we live.”

Today, Jacob is an active 9-year-old who enjoys swimming and playing Wii with his neighborhood friends. While his mother has been cautioned that her son shouldn’t play contact sports, he enjoys every other activity available to a preteen boy.

“I remember my nurse at Texas Children’s was really nice,” Jacob said. “Even though I was sick, I remember it wasn’t such a bad place to be after all.”

“Now it’s nice to know that care will be available right here in West Houston, where we live.”

— Marion Harris, Mother of an aortic coarctation patient



C a u s e f o r A p p l a u s e

Miracles on HorsebackBy JR Goforth

Good work is being done in a newly opened 100 x 200-foot arena in Lubbock, Texas.

Operated by a unique nonprofit partnership between medical and Texas Tech University professionals, this new facility offers a positive, respectful, and fun North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA)accredited therapeutic riding program. Therapeutic riding augments the treatment disabled children receive in the clinical setting, resulting in markedly improved results.

“Our program offers three types of equine-assisted therapy,” said Heather Hernandez, program director. “One is hippotherapy, which is physical, occupational, or speech therapy on horseback. Another is therapeutic riding, which is more like therapeutic sport where the ultimate goal is to learn to ride, then compete in an event like the Special Olympics. The third piece of what we do is equine-facilitated psychotherapy.”

Conditions treated include, but are not limited to: multiple sclerosis; cerebral palsy; autism; Down syndrome; cere-brovascular accident; fetal alcohol syndrome; muscular dystrophy; spina bifida; mental retardation; and visual, emotional, and learning disabilities.

A Professional Pathway

Texas Tech is one of very few U.S. universities to offer undergraduate classes, NARHA certification, and a graduate program that train students in skills necessary to work in the therapeutic riding field or manage a therapeutic riding center. The coursework explores health sciences as well as animal science, but no previous equine experience is required.

The Volunteer Experience

The center currently has about 275 active volunteers, and Hernandez said new helpers are always welcome—with or without equine experience. Volunteers typically are students doing undergrad work in animal science, special education, pre-allied health, counseling, or other related majors. Their hours at the center count toward their academic requirements. Hernandez said whether volunteers are doing office work, training horses, assisting with therapy, or cleaning stables, the riding center finds an enjoyable way for them to help.

“Every day we see many miracles.” — Jessica Jones, NARHA-certified

therapeutic riding instructor and volunteer

Texas Tech University Therapeutic Riding Center Brightens

Disabled Children’s Lives

Photo by Tangi Arant

Photo by Kim Swacina

There are Many Ways to Support the CenterNo child is turned away from the center, regardless of insurance coverage. So (tax-deductable) public contributions are a vital part of keeping the center going and growing:

• The center’s newly completed arena is part of the first phase of a three-phase project to construct a therapeutic riding, teaching, and research facility. The center still needs $76,000 to complete Phase I.

• $350,000 is needed to begin con-struction on Phases II and III, which will provide stalls, offices, a classroom, restrooms, a tornado-safe room, horse staging area, and a parking lot. Naming rights are available.

• Donate a horse.• $2,500 sponsors a horse for a year.• $3,100 sponsors a rider for a year.

Explore the possibilities by contacting Heather Hernandez at 806-792-4683 or [email protected] or visit Afs.ttu.edu/ttrc.


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Otto Sport is a family-run company with more than 25 years experience in arena construction. The company has provided more than 5,000 installations in arenas throughout the world, including the stadiums and arenas at the Kentucky Horse

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