Re: Getting to the people with the power

[Maureen Mathisen <mmathise@intergate.rbuhsd.k12.ca.us>]

Hi Riders:

Just a'another two cents worth" on fees and LD.  Another perspective?  I
have ridden endurance  since two years before AERC existed.  I have
always paid my dues because I feel that the organization needs them to
exist and do the many varied activities  that benefit ALL riders, not
just those concerned with what distance they will ride.  Lately(for the
past 4 years) I have continued to pay full dues even though I cannot
ride at all.  I would give "my eye teeth"(interesting expression??) to
ride ANY distance again.(I used to think only  l00"s were to  aim for)
but at the moment I cannot even get on my horses because of a very
damaged back. I still RAISE excellent  horses and it kills me NOT to
ride them but I am grateful I can still be with then.

ANYHOW--my point is that I believe in endurance riding as not only a
sport, but an EDUCATION, and I am willing to pay the fees to get the
benefits of the research, magazine, etc. and to keep it going for those
who can still do it.( I myself  can still reap benefits from the
knowledge being gained for ALL horses.)  AERC needs MONEY to do all
these things and have the "clout" to keep going!.  I am NOT rich either,
but please don"t let money  decide what is best for our sport when other
horse-related activities cost much more and do not give back nearly as
much!We need to watch HOW it is spent, of course, but the money is
spread out to cover   many aspectsd of the organization, not just one
small part.   Have a great ride!

Maureen