The “New Normal’

Wellington, Florida, USA – August 11, 2020 –  When I started Sound Bites in April, I certainly didn’t plan for there to be such a gap between installments.

But a lot has happened in our industry and in our world, and I wanted to be sensitive to that. I wanted to take time to think, to respect, to reflect.

These themes should continue to be woven into the fabric of our lives as we navigate the ‘new normal’ that has been set before us. Some horse shows have returned, while others continue to face cancellation.

I must say, I feel safer at a horse show than I do at a grocery store, but it’s going to take everyone’s continued, collective efforts to keep shows going—to keep our livelihoods and our sanctuaries during these difficult times.

It can be hard to stay positive in a period of such uncertainty, but how lucky are we to have our horses to keep us going? This installment of Sound Bites reminds you to keep riding—and, more importantly, to remember why we do it.

Happy Reading!

All the Best,
Catie

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I’ve been downright inspired by my recent guests on Horse & Country TV’s “The Check In.” Visit H&C’s free viewing platform to hear Georgina Bloomberg’s new perspective as a horse show mom; learn how USEF President-Elect Tom O’Mara got involved with equestrian sports governance; gain tremendous insight on how horses think from renowned (and inspirational) animal behaviorist Temple Grandin; and more!

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What’s Next?
Guest Commentary by Sandra Dalman
as told to Catie Staszak

Sound Bites by CSM features guest commentary from prominent industry figures, who share their personal experiences and insight on how the current global climate has caused them to shift their plans and mindsets. Dalman Show Jumping‘s Sandra Dalman checks in following a return to competition in Traverse City—her second major “return” of the year…

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The Plaid Horse showcases stateside homebreds in its American-bred Feature series, with a new American homebred showcased each month, from ponies to international show jumping athletes.

The August issue celebrates pony jumper Miracles Happen, who has made dreams come true for two members of the Bauman family en route to six USEF Pony Finals appearances.

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Staszak’s Shout-Out

Highlighting Individuals or Businesses that are Doing Meaningful Things for the Community

JUST WORLD INTERNATIONAL

JustWorld International, the Official Charity Partner of the FEI, has launched gamechanger. by JustWorld, a fundraising platform offering sweepstakes and auctions on items donated by individuals and groups throughout the global equestrian community. New prizes are added to the platform regularly; the next group of sweepstakes prizes ends August 16, with a hybrid auction taking place August 14.

To spread positive stories during this time of uncertainty, EQuine AMerica magazine is going exclusively digital for the first time and offering access to its Summer 2020 issue for free. You can turn the pages now by clicking here.

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EQUINE AMERICA MAGAZINE 

To spread positive stories during this time of uncertainty, EQuine AMerica magazine is going exclusively digital for the first time and offering access to its Summer 2020 issue for free. You can turn the pages now by clicking here.

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Image of the Moment

Kathy Russell Photography presents the “Image of the Moment,” in which she shares a photograph that takes the pulse of the current industry landscape.

In her most recent installment, she shines a spotlight on the intimate relationship between horse and rider—a reminder to, in these uncertain times, take solace in the quiet moments that have such a powerful impact on the special bonds we share with our equine partners.

This image was featured in NoelleFloyd.com’s “A Letter to My Horse” Series, in which I wrote a letter to the horse in this image, Sobrie—my best friend for more than 22 years. Read “To the Horses Who Shaped Us, Loved Us, and Left Us Forever Changed,” here.

See something or someone you think should get featured in the next newsletter? Send it my way at CatieStaszakMedia.com.

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Before You Go….

INSIDE YOUR RIDE – THE BOOK CLUB

This online book club was created by Tonya Johnston, Mental Skills Coach, for “anyone who wants to read, learn and discuss mental skills for riding and life.” Books, all with themes of equestrian/sports, empowerment and mental strengthening, are selected monthly, with discussions held via IG Live, Zoom and Facebook. Join Now.

See something or someone you think should get featured in the next newsletter? Send it my way at CatieStaszakMedia.com.

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Catie Staszak Media, Inc. is proud to be a strategic partner of Jumper News, one of the fastest growing platforms for show jumping news worldwide.

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Catie Staszak Media press, industry news, and commentary can be found across Jumper News’ accounts, from JumperNews.com to the organization’s immensely popular social media accounts.