How Supporting Local Talent Builds a Community
by Karen Pickering
One of the best things about publishing the Northwest Horse Source is a close connection to my community. I am inspired by the talent and resources we have here in the Northwest. Bolender Horse Park in Silver Creek, WA is just one of these resources and recently I attended a clinic there. Mark Bolender has carved out a niche in the field of mountain and extreme trail. His clinics give all disciplines a successful foundation to build from and are just plain fun. Read about Mark’s program on page 6.
In just the past couple of months, I have also had the privilege of riding at Fire Mountain Trail Course in Sedro Woolley with Raye Lochert, dressage with Vitor Silva at Rhodes River Ranch and trail riding on beautiful regional trails. By the time this article comes out in print I will have participated in the Lynden Horse Expo, too. Another great opportunity to build and enjoy the local horse community.
This is our gift issue and I encourage you to review the gift section. Why not purchase something made or created right here in the Northwest? From books to clever horse accessories, there are unique gift ideas you won’t want to miss. Our very own editor, Catherine Madera, has a new book out called Rhinestones, available in hard copy or kindle edition.
Finally, I’m thankful for the talent I have in my world. Publishing a magazine can be challenging! I have an amazing editor committed to quality content and helping me make sense out of my writing. As a horsewoman, horse mom and horse enthusiast Catherine brings a heartfelt understanding of the industry. Randy Bourland, my art director, has made some wonderful changes to the artistic side of the magazine. His talent, technical skills, and direction bring warmth and flare to the magazine. And, I appreciate my husband Mark for handling all the things I’m not good at and keeping my truck running! Finally, a big thank you to all the wonderful writers who provide great content each month and our loyal clients and readers. I’m truly blessed to be in the horse industry.
Quote: “Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of being.”
John Wooden
Published November 2013 Issue
Owner/Publisher Karen’s lifelong love of horses began at a very early age when she wore out a couple of rocking horses before convincing her parents to get her the real thing. That ill-tempered bay gelding, Brandy, was a challenge for the young horsewoman, but it drove her ambition to become a horse trainer. After attending Canyonview Equestrian College’s Horsemanship Program, Karen realized she needed work that was a little more lucrative than training, so she took a job with Customs Brokerage to pay the bills. There, she discovered an affinity for computers and a talent for creating informative, entertaining newsletters. The Northwest Horse Source began as such a letter in December 1995, with a distribution of 1000 copies for its 12 black and white pages. Now 29 years later, it’s an online magazine and website with a reach of over 10,000 per month and growing! Not bad for the results of one woman’s dream to work with horses!
Today, Karen remains involved with every aspect of the magazine and treasures the community of thousands who share a common passion.
