Aside World Magazine
Spring 2022 Issue
Review of the 2022 ISSO
Annual Meeting and Virtual Clinic on March 19th
Article by Tammie Conway
Virtual Meeting Recap!
I hope you were able to make it to ISSO's 2022 Virtual Clinic and Annual Meeting which occurred on March 19th but if not, here is some of what you missed. The meeting was opened up an hour early to assist members with any technical difficulties but also to allow for socializing between anyone that wanted to catch up given the lack of in person meetings over the last two years. The Virtual Clinic officially kicked off at noon with Pie Truono, ISSO's President, announcing the board before proceeding to four fabulous talks and finally ending with the Annual Meeting including the Virtual Awards videos.
Kate Hopkins was the first presenter on deck with her fascinating talk on corsets. We learned so much: who knew corsets started out to protect woman's waist's from the weight of the skirts that were worn at the time, not just to change the overall appearance or silhouette of the body? She suggested if we do not have a corset and would like to obtain one then we should probably find a friend that has one to try on to help determine sizing. The measurements for corsets are based on finished size, or how much reduction you are seeking, not your current measurements. She then went through the variety of corsets throughout the years as well as disciplines (riding vs everyday vs bicycling, etc). The biggest difference and what we care about is that riding corsets have a different cut- being much shorter in general and especially in the front to allow mobility in the saddle, have a wider flair at bottom in the hips for freedom, the top ends at shorter point (more at mid-bust line) and typically employees straight line panels.
Goals with corsets are to support and create a change in the shape of the body as well as waste line reduction. Kate said even if you are not interested in inch reduction, you look smaller because the waste is changed from oval to round shape which makes you look smaller. The back is also higher on the shoulders with lower under arms (so no restriction) thereby providing additional support. She then went through type of closures (busk vs zipper) and mentioned typically lacing is employed down the back for ease of tightening. Kate then went through other considerations such as steel boning, more boning = more comfortable, type of materials used, styles throughout the years, reminded us to never use against bare skin, options now available (zippers, plastic, elastic, etc) along with the pros and cons of each.
She really did a fabulous job of explaining the ins an outs of corsetry and gave us numerous websites with pros an cons of each. She is such a wealth of knowledge and it was a very interesting and interactive talk that I think the members enjoyed.
This topic led beautifully into our next presenter, Alexandra Cherrett, who owns Park Lady Equestrian. She did a wonderful talk on Concourse Classes in the UK and everything that is involved. She gave a quick background on her experience and business then discussed where she gets inspiration for her creations. She broke down the difference between historical, concorse d'elegance and costume concourse d'elegance classes then went into details. I loved all the
tips and tricks that she shared such as added length of skirt for the height of the horse, the best way to weight garments, ideas on sourcing helmets and making coverings, and some do's and don'ts in the show ring. She encouraged everyone that they do not need to buy a habit (although she and several other business will gladly make one to your liking if you are not interested in sewing one). I really appreciated that she shared multiple resources to consult if we would like to make a habit as well as ideas on how to go about starting the process of making a unique outfit just for you! She then went through multiple photos and described differences in style, fabrics, inspiration, etc. We were encouraged to seek out local museums and historic collections as a lot will let you schedule times to come and get inspiration by seeing/handling the items first hand! Alexandra was fabulous to "meet" and listen to! The time flew by and we can't thank her enough for how helpful she was answering questions on not only rules, design, sourcing of materials, but also ideas on fixing common problems that are encountered. It was a fun and interactive session that many are to remember for years to come.
I would say if you have been around side saddle for any amount of time, have attended Camp Leaping Horn at some point or even attended some of our past meetings then you will probably know or maybe have even had the chance to take lessons from our third presenter, Anne Snipes Moss. She is an USEF Dressage “R” judge, Western Dressage “R” judge, Sport Horse “r” judge, Lifetime ISSO Member and long time ISSO and SSA Certified Side Saddle Instructor. She has even earned her USDF Bronze and Silver Medals aside so it is probably safe to say she is a dressage side saddle guru. We of course were delighted that she accepted the invitation to present on the topic of Western Dressage at this years meeting! Anne started off discussing some history of Western Dressage and then told us about contributions made by Elois King and Joan Bennett. Then we went into a game plan to get ready for western dressage by starting astride with two legs then progressing to western dressage astride and finally western dressage aside. She reminded us of the USDF Pyramid of Training diagram that is seen in dressage and introduced us to the Western Dressage Training Wheel that looks like a spoke wheel.
I found it very interesting and really enjoyed how Anne compared and contrasted the differences in the two disciplines. The goal is lightness, thoroughness, and harmony with our horse and she reminded us we should read the rulebook for the specific organization you will show with on a regular basis. Another tip was to read the verbiage on the test you are riding, especially the directives section as that is the purpose of the test.
Several books were suggested to further our knowledge of the subject. For example, Lynn Palm's book "Your Complete Guide to Western Dressage" and Robin Miller's book "Dressage in a Side Saddle."
Anne also mentioned you need consistency astride before aside and you should fix astride issues then go back to aside. A few other nuggets include to train a level or two higher than you plan to show and if you don't do well immediately then give yourself one year to be super at something. She continued the discussion with examples of different western side saddles, outfits to consider, reminded us of the importance of helmets (showing examples of western options), then went into
explaining the different levels in Western Dressage (WD) tests compared to their USEF counterparts, with level 5 being the highest at the moment in WD. Organization information and shows were discussed then she ended with an interactive question and answer section. We really appreciate Anne taking the time out of her own clinic she was attending to host this educational talk- as always it was a delightful and enlightening discussion that we thoroughly enjoyed.
The final presentation of the day was an interactive educational critique by Heidi Opdyke of photos on the flat, over fences and even videos that were mostly of attendees or were submitted by them. Heidi is another ISSO and SSA certified instructor and is the Instructor Certification Coordinator for ISSO. She went through a ton of photos to explain what was correct and what could be improved along with explaining the "whys" of reasoning behind such statements. She was definitely more direct with the vintage photos and had nothing but positive, constructive criticism for the newer shots. I thought she was very nice in pointing out our strengths and weaknesses as well as how we could improve or just tweek a few minor things to change our positions to strengthen or elevate our riding. She was never negative and I never thought that she was "picking" on anyone. I think a lot of times people are scared to submit photos for fear of what will be said in front of others or how people will perceive them but Heidi did a wonderful job of saying things that could be improved (and lets face it no matter how good you are everyone can be better, that's why Olympians still take lessons, right?!?)
She started with a series of three vintage pictures in older style of riding where the rider was had a lot that could have been improved per our modern day standards. The rider was not giving over the fence and needed to get centered over the pommels then was tight over fence causing the horse to hollow out to the point of almost pulling a rail. There were several other vintage pictures that illustrated a lot of great teaching points such as not forcing the left heel down (will pull saddle to left), not riding with cramped position into leaping head which could make the rider not sit square amongst other things and one with a right leg that was tense with toe up which drew the leg upward to the point you could see daylight between the saddle and her leg. Heidi reminded us to let the toe relax down and just hang until it's need to do something and if problems were to occur then reverse grip with left leg up into leaping horn, wrap right leg around the upright with the hinge effect, and shoulders square to lock you in position.
Heidi then started into critiquing more modern photos. She would say the positives of their position, then give a couple thoughts on how someone could improve their position as well as the why's as to this how this would impact their position. She never was harsh but just constructive in these observations. This went on for numerous photos and she kept reminding us that photos are just a moment frozen in time. Her goal with the talk was to try to improve everyone's eyes to see things, understand the mechanics behind it, and know what to do to correct any faults because seeing/identifying any faults puts you half way to correcting it. People could ask questions throughout on teaching points for clarification. This was yet again another informative and productive talk that I think everyone enjoyed and learned a great deal from. We even discussed maybe starting a section in Aside World where you can submit photos or videos and Heidi will critique them for you so start getting those videos and photos together!
That wrapped up our presentations so Pie thanked the presenters and we then started our Annual Meeting part of the day. You can read the below minutes for the recap. It was a very productive year and we have some new Board members that you can read about in the Winners and Election Results page of this issue. We then watched the 2021 Virtual Awards videos for the divisions, Top Ten, Mileage Program, and Hat Contest. Pie wrapped up the day again thanking everyone for participating and attending this year's meeting and special shout out to Sarah McKay for hosting the event while moving from hotel to airport without any hiccups! It was a really fun, educational, interesting, and productive meeting so make sure you plan to attend next years if you missed it!
We would again like to thank all the presenters and Board members that made this meeting possible:
Kate Hopkins with Round Table Productions
Alexandra Cherrett with Park Lady Equestrian
Anne Snipes Moss
Heidi Opdyke
Pie Truono, Sarah McKay, Carla Peetros, Laureen Bartfield,
Marybeth Walker, Tammie Conway, Shelly Liggett, and Jen Stevenson
2022 Meeting Minutes from Annual Meeting
3/19/22- Saturday
Call to order @1547 by Pie Truono
In Attendance: Pie Truono, Tammie Conway, Marybeth Walker, Heidi Opdyke, Mica McPeters, Jacquelynn Holly, Jeannie Whited, Rebecca Crispin, Anne Vinsel, Delaney Kenney, Sarah Brown, Stephanie Conway, Anne Moss, Barbara Drogo, Sarah McKay, Carla Peetros
Reading of 2021 Minutes: Tammie Conway, moved to approve with minimal changes by Pie Truono, Seconded by Laureen Bartfield
Treasurer Report: Sarah McKay- Sarah sends monthly expense reports to the board and discussed in meetings. Biggest revenue virtual shows, swag store, significant cost for constant contact, scholarship (two this year), and shipping of ribbons for shows.
Marybeth Walker discussed current membership 2021- 50 paying members. Membership report-not all reup for this year yet. Membership due January 1- this coming issue last. If not pay 2022 then sending out reminder it will be their last issue- to send a reminder. Several bad addresses- couple want to be archived. Pie said 33 adults for year and 50 life (Marybeth has 36 members). Roughly 83 members, dozen lost.
Election of Officers and Directors- Election- Carla announced- Jacquelynn Holly Secretary elected unopposed, Sarah McKay Treasure elected but Tammie remined us that Jeannie Whited had brought to attention we do not need to vote on as the board will elect, so will remove term end from website but Jeannie thinks that term is not to exceed 3 years. All Bylaw changes were approved by voting. “A” and “C” in Logo Contest very close. “A” won by 1 vote. Logo “B” had lots of votes as well. Two scholarships this year- Erin Stormont would like to go to Devon this year and Savannah Grace Holly would like to do some demos. We did two scholarships this year because we did not award one last yet. Logo Winner was attending meeting- Rebecca Crispin- Canva -online platform used (jpeg, png, pdf…) Carla wants to know if EPS format- editable. Mica McPeters can do conversion if needed- contact her. Timeline to roll out is not final yet- they will put in Aside World.
President's Report: Pie Truono- Got a lot done last year, TSS moved from Shelly’s, 20+ sidesaddles plus sold stock, returned consignment saddles to owners, kept 3 or 4, 1 consignment trying to get back to Roman Miller but having hard time contacting him (sent letter with no response). Hunt clothes, whips, miscellaneous appointments left. We are wanting to start an appointment rental kits. Also thinking about side saddle kid’s habits rentals. Both for those that don’t show much or fox hunt- suitable to rent. We redirected the TSS website to go to main website. Current website big- like an onion- layers. If see something let us know, improvement, ideas, very big site. We had swag shops, 3 virtual shows, annual meeting, booth at camp, presence at Camp Leaping Horn including catered lunch and exhibition. Certified International Instructors in Australia and UK. Four editorials in Elite Equestrian- distributed in Dover, tack stores, sent digital link to Facebook page. Logo Contest- got done. Christmas ornament fundraiser for Scholarship.
Executive Directors Report- Shelly Liggett could not make it but ditto above.
Report of Committees- Events Committee is Board- Tammie Conway mentioned Pie covered all that we have done, she expanded little on …
Unfinished Business- question of removing the verbiage about nominating committee from the Bylaws next year but was decided to follow up in the Strategic Planning Committee meeting.
New business- Pie- may be better now that things with COVID doing better. New Swag store this year with new logo, don’t hold inventory, and we won’t need to ship out. In person clinic in fall- thinking Delaware venue, she is in contact with Fair Hill in MD. Thinking in states you can have own clinic- ISSO help out to spread out education. Idaho Side Saddle doing joint meeting- Laureen & Heidi to teach, Pie and Tammie going out as well. Camp Leaping Horn- Summer- July. Strategic planning this year- on docket- best strategy as organization. Finish assembling show its- need contributors to Aside World. Keep making Aside World. Virtual Shows are expensive- ribbons, shipping, time… Considering if members do not care about ribbons could do without and only points to save money. Also, Tammie mentioned Heidi Opdyke had suggested we could place and do points and send ribbon out to only 1st place to same money. We could then go down to 10th if we wanted. Pie suggested poll on Facebook. Someone else suggested we could do end of series ribbons for just our shows. Do multiple shows- series of ISSO virtual shows ribbons for those. Suggested just to send poll out and board decide to give guidance. Could do survey & poll Facebook. They will formalize on Basecamp. Marybeth reminded this is good Buzz with something that is happening. Last year May/June, Aug/Sept, Nov/Dec- close at end of year. If clinic takes place that will take time, also Thanksgiving and Christmas are distractions so could do at least two- Spring & Fall. Could also do Flash Classes. Suggestion of also filling out all stuff before entry- maybe put on website. Reminder about monthly Ride Aside Virtual Zoom. Laureen mentioned old name Ride Aside in 2002 or 2003- no one owns the term “Ride Aside” so we could use. Once a month mini clinic on weekday. Poll to ask about topics for events. Heidi could do. Already Stacey Rusic. Next meeting Board- on 3rd Wednesday of month.
Election of Association Nominating Committee- board will do.
Miscellaneous Business and Announcements- Combined with above reports. Pie thanked board for helping to make this meeting possible.
Adjournment @1645- Motioned by Pie Truono, Seconded by Marybeth Walker
Approved Bylaw Changes for 2022
(to make it easy, changes are in RED below)
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Update Membership Categories to include Young Adult and remove two old categories (Affiliate Club and Affiliate) as follows:
ARTICLE IV: MEMBERSHIP:
SECTION 1: MEMBERS:
Membership is of seven categories – Adult, Young Adult, Junior, Life, Family, Family Life, and Inactive.
ADULT MEMBERSHIP: An Adult Membership will cover only the individual named on the application and will entitle the holder to one (1) vote on all business of the Association requiring approval by the membership and one (1) subscription to the association newsletter, ASIDE WORLD.
YOUNG ADULT: A Young Adult Membership is available to persons 19 -26 years old and will cover only the individual named on the application and will entitle the holder to one (1) vote on business of the Association requiring approval by the membership and one (1) subscription to the association newsletter, ASIDE WORLD.
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP: A Junior Membership is available to persons 18 years and under and will cover only the individual named on the application and will entitle the holder to one (1) subscription to the Association newsletter, ASIDE WORLD. Anyone holding a Junior Membership may participate in all of the activities of the association except those activities which are considered by the association as being activities solely for the Adult Membership such as holding office and voting on officers and Association activities and procedures.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP: A Life Membership will cover any individual that applies to the Association by paying ten (10) times the established membership fee for one year. This will entitle the life member to one (1) vote on all business of the Association requiring approval by the membership and one (1) subscription to the association newsletter, ASIDE WORLD.
FAMILY MEMBERSHIP: Family Membership consists of two adults and all minor children (under the age of 18) residing within the same residence who applies as a family for membership with the Association and pay one year’s membership fees as set by Policy. This will entitle the adult members of the family to one (1) vote each on all business of the Association requiring approval by the membership and one (1) subscription to the association newsletter, ASIDE WORLD.
FAMILY LIFE MEMBERSHIP: Family Life Membership consists of two adults and all minor children (under the age of 18) residing within the same residence who applies as a family for membership with the Association by paying ten (10) times the established family membership fee of one year. This will entitle the two (2) adult members of the family to one (1) vote each on all business of the Association requiring approval by the membership and one (1) subscription to the association newsletter, ASIDE WORLD.
INACTIVE MEMBER: An Inactive Member is defined as a Member who has not been suspended or expelled from the Association, or who has not resigned from the Association and whose dues are not paid according to current Policy for the current year. Inactive members are not eligible to vote, may not hold any position of authority such as Director, Officer, or committee member, will not receive a subscription to the Association newsletter, Aside World, nor be eligible to participate in year end awards.
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Update notice of Membership Meeting to include website and via internet.
ARTICLE VII: MEETINGS:
SECTION 4: NOTICE OF MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS. Notice of the annual meeting, along with the proposed slate of officers and directors, shall be given not less than thirty (30) days prior to the time for such meeting. Notice shall be deemed to be delivered when it or the issue of Aside World, the association’s official newsletter, containing such notice shall be announced and delivered electronically through email ,address as it appears on the records of the organization, website or via internet.
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Update ballot due date as follows:
ARTICLE VII: MEETINGS:
SECTION 5: By absentee ballot
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Notice of material subject to vote shall be given not less than thirty (30) days prior to the time for such meeting. Notice shall be deemed to be delivered when it or the issue of Aside World, the association’s official newsletter, containing such notice shall be electronically sent to the email address as it appears on the records of the Association.
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A ballot or other electronic means (i.e. survey monkey) for indicating the member’s decision on each topic of vote shall be electronically sent to the member via the email on file. There will be one ballot sent out for each voting member.
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The member’s choices shall be selected via electronic means.
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The ballot or other electronic means must be received in the Association’s office one hour prior to start of Annual meeting or scheduled counting of the ballots.
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As ballots are received, the membership roster will be marked to indicate that a vote has been received from that member.
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Each adult member in good standing shall be entitled to one vote. If more than one ballot is received from a member, only the ballot first received shall be considered. Additional ballots from the same member will be discarded.
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The ballots shall be added to the vote of the members present physically and who are voting by electronic presence to ascertain the decision of the voting members.
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In cases of a tie or no required percentage vote, the President will vote in this instance.