Around the Farm at Ivy Hill

Christmas Dance

2011-12-12T17:19:00.002-05:00

Fall Home Show

2011-11-17T10:10:00.002-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Congratulations riders!

Applebee's Fundraiser!

2011-11-17T10:09:00.002-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Hope you all enjoyed your pancakes!!

Fall Thorncroft

2011-11-02T13:41:00.003-04:00

Click on the images to enlarge!

Special Olympics Registration

2011-11-01T15:40:00.001-04:00

As many of you know we need to make sure all medicals are current for this year as Special Olympics training is fast approaching. I am going to start practices November 1st this year. Unfortunately they are planning for a cold winter and so I want to make sure everyone has enough weeks in and we are not caught short like last year.

Local Competition will be in April 15, 2012

Qualifications:

Current Medical On File

Must Be 5 years old to do Locals

Must be 8 years old to qualify for states

Must attend 10 lessons between November 1, 2012 and April 1, 2012

If you are interested there is a Medical attached to this email. Please print and get back to me no later than November 15th. Spaces are limited if you are a new equestrian athlete so please get back to me ASAP.

Thank you,
Ivy Hill Staff

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:42:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone had a safe and happy halloween and we can't wait to see pictures! Make sure to post them in the facebook group or bring them in to the barn!!

Post Secondary Opportunities Expo

2011-10-27T12:02:00.000-04:00

Pancake Breakfast is Coming Up Fast!

2011-10-24T12:42:00.000-04:00

Ivy Hill has sold almost 40 pancake breakfast tickets. We are hoping to sell 100+. Please buy your tickets at your next lesson. Bring family and friends to join us. It will be a great way to meet families, make new friends, and see Ivy Hill's family grow outside the barn!

Tickets are $7 (Cash or Check made to Ivy Hill).

Location: Quakertown Applebee's

Time 8-10am

For What: ALL YOU CAN EAT PANCAKES

Clothing for Sale!

2011-10-11T16:02:00.001-04:00

I have ordered some ivy Hill clothing and I have some in stock. Need to bring check or cash for items when you pick them up.

Ordered Adult T-shirts will be in by 9/23 (5 small, 5 medium, 5 large, 5 xl) Will be $10 a piece.

I have in stock the following items for purchase. If i do not have the correct size i can order it.

2 Hunter Fleece Scarves $5 each

4 Hunter baseball hats $20 each

1 Hunter winter hat $10

3 Youth XL Fleece Vests $35 each

T-shirts Youth $10

1 small green

1 medium black

1 medium green

5 large black

3 large green

1 xl black

1 xl green

T-shirt $10

1 small green

1 2xl green

Youth Long Sleeve Shirt $15

2 black medium

1 xl green

Adult Long Sleeve Shirt $17

2 small green

1 small black

1 medium black

I can order the following please let me know what you would like and i can see if prices have changed and then place an order. I can also order any of the above items if i do not have a size you want.

Jackets

Sweatshirts

Fleece Vests

Flapjack Fundraiser!

2011-10-11T16:00:00.001-04:00

Please consider joining us for our flapjack fundraiser! Details in the image above.

Sharing and Caring

2011-10-11T15:59:00.000-04:00

The next Sharing and Caring support group meeting will be October 13, 2011from 7-9pm. Please distribute.

Demystifying Speech andLanguage

· Ask questions about your child's speech delay

· Learn strategies that work

· Understand your child's challenges in speech and language

· Discuss your current approach and strategy to therapy

Our speaker:

Debra Levin, MA, CCC-SLP

Senior Speech-Language Pathologist

Center for Childhood Communication

The Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania

Please note our meeting location and view the campus map!

Both the support group and SibShop meet in rooms located in Portable 6 on the BucksCounty College Newtown Campus. Directions to the campus are available here: http://www.bucks.edu/about/campus/newtown/directions/#d.en.442

PARKING is available in theemployee lot located behind the portables (lot H on the map at their website). The lot is located on the back side of the campus. It is best to enter the lower entrance and take the second left that leads to the back side of campus. Walk down the small access road and we are in the last portable on the left.

Please see one of the meeting facilitators for a parking pass.

Coin Jar

2011-10-11T15:58:00.000-04:00

We cashed in the coin jar again recently and the total was $ 73.73!! Please remember to bring in money for the coin jar and help us get our very own facility!

Soccer!

2011-10-11T15:57:00.003-04:00

Click to enlarge the image!

Silent Majority Clothing

2011-10-11T15:55:00.000-04:00

http://www.silentmajorityclothing.com/

Silent Majority Jeans are the result of one individual’s need for jeans that could be easily maneuvered up and down and still be youthful and fashionable. The jeans we created have been such an enormous benefit that we decided to offer them to everyone. Individuals with fine and gross motor dexterity issues don’t have to be resigned to wearing sweatpants. There is now a better option.

Sharing and Caring Group

2011-10-02T16:48:00.000-04:00

The next Sharing and Caring support group meeting will be October 13, 2011from 7-9pm. Please distribute.

Demystifying Speech andLanguage
· Ask questions about your child's speech delay
· Learn strategies that work
· Understand your child's challenges in speech and language
· Discuss your current approach and strategy to therapy

Our speaker:
Debra Levin, MA, CCC-SLP
Senior Speech-Language Pathologist
Center for Childhood Communication
The Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania

Please note our meeting location and view the campus map!
Both the support group and SibShop meet in rooms located in Portable 6 on the BucksCounty College Newtown Campus. Directions to the campus are available here: http://www.bucks.edu/about/campus/newtown/directions/#d.en.442 <https://mail.bucksiu.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=e018cd77a3f34be18a24e57f077d8fdc&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.bucks.edu%2fabout%2fcampus%2fnewtown%2fdirections%2f%2523d.en.442>

PARKING is available in theemployee lot located behind the portables (lot H on the map at their website). The lot is located on the back side of the campus. It is best to enter the lower entrance and take the second left that leads to the back side of campus. Walk down the small access road and we are in the last portable on the left.
Please see one of the meeting facilitators for a parking pass.

It's A Wonderful Life

2011-10-02T16:45:00.001-04:00

Attached you will find a flyer from The Sertoma Club about an upcoming play- "It's A Wonderful Life" on November 9, 2011. Sertoma’s primary focus is on assisting the more than 50 million people with hearing health issues and educating the public on the issues surrounding hearing health. The Bucks County Sertoma Club has supported our IU for many years by donating grant dollars to assist our students with hearing issues. To learn more about Sertoma, click on the following link: http://www.sertoma.org

Helmet Exchange

2011-09-19T10:47:00.002-04:00

Bucks Country Saddlery is hosting a helmet exchange. When you trade in your old or worn helmet you get 20% off the purchase of a new one! This offer is from September 22-24 and is a great opportunity for an upgrade!

Bucks Country Saddlery

4765 York Rd/PO Box 917

Buckingham, Pennsylvania 18912

215-794-5411

USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage Team

2011-09-19T10:42:00.003-04:00

Amazing article about the recent para-equestrian competition!

North Penn School District

2011-09-19T10:37:00.003-04:00

Parents in the North Penn School District are advocating for more services for their kids, and a more concrete plan from the school district.

Article

Upcoming Events Hosted by the BCASC

2011-09-02T13:41:00.001-04:00

BCASC Parent Forum

Date: Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: Doylestown Health & Wellness Center, 847 Easton Road, Warrington PA 18976 (in the Doylestown Room on the lower level of the building.)

The group is open to all, including parents, grandparents and guardians or children and teens and adults on the autism spectrum in Bucks County and surrounding areas. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders often feel socially isolated and have difficulty finding information and support.

The group will be an open forum, with no pre-planned agenda. Discussion will revolve around areas of concern or interest to the parents in attendance.

Contact MIgnasiak@bcasc.org for more details

BCASC Education Committee Meeting

Date: Monday, September 19, 2011

Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm
Where: The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling, PC, 1243 Easton Road, Suite 203, Warrington, PA 18976

Contact education@bcasc.org for more details

*****************

BCASC Speaker Series Meeting:

What is Evidence-Based Practice, and why it is important?

Date: Monday October 3, 2011

Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: Bucks County Intermediate Unit, 705 North Shady Retreat Road, Doylestown, PA 18901

Please join us for this FREE presention by:

Dr. Peter Doehring, Director of Autism Services, Foundations Behavioral Health

With the tremendous increase in scientific research on Autism Spectrum Disorder (or ASD) over the past 15 years, we are able to identify specific, evidence-based practices (or EBPs) based on the consistency and quality of research supporting them. We define EBP, and discuss the advantages of relying on EBP whenever possible. We also describe some of the limits to EBP, because of the limited range of research currently available, and the challenge of knowing whether research findings apply to all children with ASD. We conclude by offering some practical advice to parents and professionals seeking to evaluate whether a given approach is likely to work with their child.

Contact speakerseries@bcasc.org for more details.

Hurricane Update

2011-08-27T15:28:00.001-04:00

No lessons after 1pm on Saturday the 27th and no lessons prior to 11am on Sunday. Hope the barn is all in one piece after all this!

Please check FB/email for updates on lessons as the Hurricane progresses!

Be safe and make sure everything is tied down on porches and decks

Thank You

2011-05-31T12:39:00.000-04:00

Ivy Hill has been honored to have two community day work groups in the past month. During the month of May Ivy Hill did a lot of spring-cleaning with the help of our friends fro Reed Technologies and Calvary Church.

On Tuesday May 24, 2011 a beautiful sunny day after a week of rain. Calvary Church of Souderton came out with 20+ volunteers to help with some fixing, building, and maintenance jobs around the barn. They worked through out the afternoon and evening moving the wood pile, tearing down the old picnic table, made wooden jump standards, fixed paddock fences, built dice, re-leveled stall floor mats, mow, weed whack, clean up the manure pile, wipe off toys and stain and waterproof the new picnic tables. They also brought a special treat from Rita’s for families, staff, and volunteers who helped out on that day.

Ivy Hill appreciates all the help from the group to keep the barn looking open, warm and welcoming to parents, friends, and family. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to help those in your community.

Ivy Hill Home Show Spring 2011

2011-05-31T12:28:00.003-04:00

Ivy Hill Therapeutic Equestrian Center had great weather on April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2011 for their Annual Spring Horse Show and Open House. Riders participated in trail and equitation classes on Saturday with dressage and jumping classes on Sunday. 68 riders participated in the horse show ranging in ages from 3 to 65.

Families, riders, and guests enjoyed watching the different classes as well as a cook-out. Families were overjoyed with the look on the riders faces as they rode there best, won ribbons, and showed off what they have learned all winter.

Thorncroft Spring 2011

2011-05-29T16:20:00.004-04:00

Congratulations on a wonderful show to all of Ivy Hill's Riders, Staff, Volunteers and Horses!!!

A Special congratulations to Sonny who WON HORSE OF THE YEAR!!!

Individual Rider Results!

Joella

Trail 5th

Dressage 1st

Equitation 1st

Maria

Trail 4th

Dressage 1st

Equitation 1st

Brianna B

Trail 1st

Dressage 2nd

Equitation 2nd

Gabby

Trail 7th

Equitation 3rd

Johnathan

Trail 4th

Dressage 2nd

Equitation 2nd

Kendra

Trail 4th

Dressage 1st

Equitation 2nd

Madison G

Trail 7th

Dressage 5th

Equitation 6th

Jumping 2nd

Abigail

Trail 4th

Equitation 3rd

Michael

Trail 4th

Equitation 3

Nicole

Trail 4th

Equitation 4th

Dressage 5th

Justin

Trail 7th

Dressage 1st

Equitation 3rd

Madison M

Trail 5th

Equitation 3rd

Eric

Trail 5th

Dressage 5th

Sean

Trail 2nd

Dressage 1st

Equitation 1st

Brianna R

Trail 2nd

Dressage 3rd

Equitation 4th

Crystal

Trail 6th

Dressage 1st

Equitation 1st

Bryn

Trail 3rd

Equitation 2nd

Barbara

Trail 4th

Dressage 1st

Equitation 1st

Lucas

Trail 5th

Dressage 4th

Equitation 3rd

Jennette - rode her horse Prince

Dressage 4^th

Trail 1^st

Costume 1^st

Equitation 1st

Coins for the Capital Fund

2011-05-10T11:49:00.003-04:00

Two more cash-in's have been completed and our total is now $335.15. The Capital Fund is helping Ivy Hill towards its goal of owning its own property. Please remember to bring in your coins!!!

(Bean says, "Remember your coins when you come to the barn!!")

Prom Night at Council Rock

2011-05-10T11:44:00.003-04:00

Thank You Bit of Heaven

2011-05-10T11:42:00.001-04:00

Ivy Hill had a special opportunity this year. Bit of Heaven tack shop in Collegeville worked with Ivy Hill and one of our board members to dress two riders for Special Olympics. They provided complete show attire for two new riders as they experience what Penn State University and State Games is like. They are psyched up and ready to go! Hannah and Joella are excited to take riding to the next level and we are excited to help them embrace the opportunity. Good Luck Special Olympics Buck County. Please leave notes for riders in the next couple weeks as they prepare for a weekend away June 9-11th.

A Note from Karen (Hannah's mom)

WOW! We took a ride there today and Hannah is ready to roll! They were so very nice and the girl that helped us, Brooke (the owners daughter), hugged her and wished her luck! Hannah is so very excited.

Thank you for your help with arranging this (tears of joy, AGAIN).

Special Olympics

2011-05-10T11:41:00.003-04:00

Thank You!!

2011-05-02T15:33:00.002-04:00

On April 16th, Explorers Adult Bible Fellowship of Immanuel Church of the Nazarene had a work day at Ivy Hill to help us do our flowerbeds for the spring. They weeded, mulched, trimmed bushes, and planted flowers. The entrance way and flower beds look great! It gives Ivy Hill a fresh look for the spring as we enter show season and enjoy sitting outside watching everyone ride during there lessons.

Thank you for your help in making Ivy Hill a warm and welcoming place for families to come and enjoy their lessons.

April

2011-04-08T14:11:00.001-04:00

Please spread the word and join us for a showing of the Wretches & Jabberers documentary !

2011-03-25T12:07:00.002-04:00

Saturday April 2, 2011 at noon

At the AMC Neshaminy Theatre in Philadelphia

This April, the Autism Society and AMC Theatres have teamed up to bring the new film Wretches & Jabberers to 40 cities in a special limited release. Wretches & Jabberers is a ground-breaking documentary about two men with autism who embark on a global quest to change attitudes about disability, intelligence and communication. The film's stars, self-advocates Tracy Thresher, 42 and Larry Bissonnette, 52, have limited speech and type to communicate. Growing up, people presumed they had intellectual disabilities and they were excluded from typical schooling. They faced lives of social isolation in institutions or adult disability centers. When, as adults, they learned to communicate by typing, it dramatically changed their lives.

We are spreading the word about this film because it highlights the real lives of adults living with autism. Today, many individuals with developmental disabilities are facing a crisis. For example, Tracy is homeless and sleeps in a different place each night. Projected government budget cuts mean the already scarce services and supports provided by Medicaid are even more vulnerable. On the other hand, the film portrays the potential of people with autism as Tracy and Larry show audiences around the world that they are "the perfect example of intelligence working out itself in a much different way."

This exceptional film is making one stop in a theater near you in April. This is a huge opportunity to raise awareness about the issues faced by adults with autism and other disabilities today. We appreciate AMC Theatres for providing this very rare opportunity for an independent documentary to have such a long run in large mainstream movie theaters. AMC is generously donating 10% of ticket sales to the Autism Society to commemorate Autism Awareness Month. Please click here to buy presale tickets: www.amctheatres.com/wretchesandjabberers

Our goal is to show our dedication and pride, fill theaters, increase awareness and support Tracy and Larry's efforts by sharing their story with the world. This film has the power to make people pay attention to the critical issues faced by others like Tracy and Larry, and to acknowledge that everyone deserves respect and that we should always "presume competence," which is evident if we just stop and listen.

We hope you are able to attend one of the showings. Please also help us spread the word by sharing this information with all of your e-mail lists, friends, families and colleagues, and encourage them to go see Wretches and Jabberers at a theater near them this April. The listing of theater locations and dates follows. You can watch the movie trailer or find more information at the Wretches and Jabberers website http://www.wretchesandjabberers.org and don’t forget, you can pre-order tickets here www.amctheatres.com/wretchesandjabberers Working together, we can change lives!

Variety's Autism Awareness Day at Sesame Place

2011-03-23T23:35:00.000-04:00

Date: Friday April 22, 2011

Time: 10:00am-4:00pm

Where: Sesame Place, Langhorne PA

Variety's most popular event is back again! Children with autism and their families are invited to attend an exclusive day at this one-of-a-kind park!

Registration for this event will be available on our website in: www.varietyphila.org

Or call/email our office to request a paper form (215) 735-0803 autism@varietyphila.org

Silent Auction Pictures

2011-03-17T23:44:00.002-04:00

The pictures from this years Silent Auction have been posted! Click here to view all the spectacular moments of the night!

New Faces Around Ivy Hill

2011-03-17T23:35:00.006-04:00

Welcome New Instructors:

Rachael Rufe: Rachael has been teaching at Ivy Hill Since February 2011. Rachael is an Occupational Therapist. Rachel Came to Ivy Hill interested in volunteering with Special Olympics. Rachael has owned horses and ridden since a young age. She has volunteered at other programs through college. We are excited to have Rachael come on board with us teaching lessons.

Amanda Hedrick: Amanda has been teaching at Ivy Hill Since January 2011. Amanda has prior experience as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor and has taught lessons and summer camp in Maryland. Amanda attends Deleware Valley College. Amanda is a NARHA Registered Instructor.

The Autism Society of America, Greater Philadelphia Chapter: Autism Awareness Day at the Philadelphia Zoo

2011-03-17T23:34:00.000-04:00

Philadelphia Zoo

Date: Sunday April 17, 2011

Time: Gates open at 9:30am

Where: Philadelphia Zoo

Entertainment begins at 11am at the Peacock Pavilion. There will be a Resource Fair, Autism merchandise, Crafts, Face Painting and much more!

To be involved in the resource fair as an exhibitor or for questions concerning the event, Contact Anna at
AutismZooDay@verizon.net

For more information visit our website at www.asaphilly.org

Autism Awareness Night at the Phillies

2011-03-17T23:33:00.001-04:00

Date: Friday April 15, 2011

Time: 7:00pm

Where: Citizen's Bank Park

Tickets or information please contact Gennie Devlin at earzal@aol.com

Variety's Autism Awareness Night at Please Touch Museum

2011-03-17T23:32:00.001-04:00

Date: Saturday April 2, 2011

Time: 6:00pm-9:00pm

Where: Please Touch Museum at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia PA

Cost: $20 per family

The museum will be open JUST to kids with autism and their families.

Registration for this event will be available on Variety's website: www.varietyphila.org

Or call/email our office to request a paper form (215) 735-0803
autism@varietyphila.org

NARHA Photo Contest

2011-03-17T23:30:00.001-04:00

Enter the Free NARHA 2011 Photo and Video Contest and get the chance to win a free registration for the 2011 NARHA National Conference and Annual Meeting or other prizes.

NARHA always needs good photos for NARHA publications, marketing projects and the website.

Set your digital camera at its highest resolution and take your best active photos of your center's riders, equines, volunteers and instructors. Show us your center's driving, interactive vaulting, group activities, teamwork and more!

http://www.narha.org/narha-membership/what-is-new/272-2011-photo-contest . Deadline is June 30

(Last Years Winner)

Equine Welfare Tip From the Equine Welfare Committee

2011-03-17T23:28:00.002-04:00

Need a Drink?
By Heidi J. Potter, Equine Welfare Committee Member
We know horses always need unlimited access to clean, fresh water. On average, a horse will consume 12-20 gallons per day, depending on weather and workload. However, are we aware of their drinking habits?

Most horses will seek out water after grazing and/or eating grain or hay. In many programs horses are taken out of the field or paddock and brought directly to the cross ties or hitching rail. At that point it may be several hours before they will be returned to any water source. Please be mindful where he is in his daily cycle when you go out to get a horse for work. Have you seen him just take a drink? Did he recently finish a meal? Did you just take him away from his pile of hay?

To help ensure his good health just stop by his water source for a moment to see if he is interested. If you are paying attention, the horse will generally "tell" you that he is interested in water as you are passing by it. Some horses will speak very quietly, so be mindful about reading them. Others will boldly pull you in that direction. They are "shouting" to you, so be sure to listen. Then be prepared to practice patience as some (especially those who lack confidence in the herd or are lower down in the pecking order) will need to look around, drop their nose, pick their head up, look around and then settle in for a drink. Others will need to splash for a bit before drinking. Some will take a drink, take a breather and drink again.

Placing a large muck bucket just outside the entrance to the barn helps volunteers and barn staff remember to stop there before entering. This works well as horses will generally drink faster from a large bucket. They don't have to worry about others in the herd sneaking up to move them off. You also don't have to wait for an automatic waterer to refill, which can seem like an eternity if you are in a hurry.

By putting a watering procedure in place you help ensure the overall health and happiness of your equine partner.

NARHA 2011 Awards Nominations

2011-03-17T23:26:00.004-04:00

Every year riders, instructors, volunteers and equines invest time and energy in continuously developing in the Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies industry. So many people and equines spend hours in the sun and cold weather, in dusty barns and arenas to participate in this wonderful industry. The dedication of all these individuals and equines is outstanding, and NARHA would like to take this opportunity to honor those people with our 2011 awards program.

Visit the NARHA website and download the 2011 criteria and nomination forms for our Volunteer, Equine, Instructor, Adult Equestrian, Independent Adult Equestrian, Youth Equestrian, Child Equestrian, Sis Gould, NARHA Horses for Heroes, EFL/EFP professional or James Brady awards to help us honor all those dedicated to this amazing industry.

Please read all criteria for each award carefully and be sure you submit a complete application for the award of your choice. Some guidelines for 2011 have changed, so please review the criteria carefully! Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Award nominations are due by May 16, 2011. Please have them postmarked by this date or submitted via email by May 16, 2011. Late or incomplete nominations will not be accepted.

Send all nominations to Tara McChesney, NARHA, PO Box 33150 Denver, CO 80233 or
email Tara. Please do not send your nomination to both places; submit your nomination to one place only.

Please note nominators will not receive a letter regarding the results of their submission until August, 2011.

Summer Camp Grant

2011-03-02T11:01:00.002-05:00

So the time to apply for funding for camp has begun. ‘Bucks County Special Needs’ is a private non-profit group that provides assistance for children with disabilities under the age of 21. Funding may be provided for summer camps, and equipment not covered by Medical Access.

We have had great success with this grant in the past and hope that everyone planning to attend summer camp will apply!

http://www.bcsn1.org/2011%20Camp%20Grant.pdf

The 2011 Autism Grant is Available

2011-02-22T10:28:00.000-05:00

Bureau of Autism Services 2011 Family and Individual Mini-Grants

The Bureau of Autism Services of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare is pleased to announce the availability of mini-grants to support children and adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and families that include an individual with ASD. The full application packet including directions, frequently asked questions and answers, and the application will be made available for downloading and printing off of our website at the close of business on February 18, 2011. If you do not have internet access or printing capabilities, requests for paper applications to be mailed to you can be made after 5:00pm on February 18, 2011 by calling our toll free number at 1-866-539-7689 (select option # 2) or email DPW-AutismOffice@state.pa.us. Please include and spell your name, complete mailing address and a phone number with area code. Additionally, this year we will be posting a webcast regarding the mini grant application process, please visit http://bastraining.acrobat.com/p53796987/ after February 18, 2011 to view this informative webcast.

Special Needs Resources Fair!

2011-02-11T16:18:00.000-05:00

Please consider attending the Special Needs Resource Fair on Sunday March 27!

(Click to Enlarge)

4th Annual BCASC Autism Conference

2011-02-07T12:33:00.002-05:00

The Bucks County Autism Support Coalition will be hosting its 4th Annual Autism Conference which you can register for online.

Date: Saturday, March 19, 2011

Time: 8:30am-4:30pm (registration & continental breakfast opens at 7:30am)

Where: Central Bucks High School South, 1100 Folly Road, Warrington, PA 18976

Keynote Address

Positive Behavior Support: Current Issues and Future Directions
Dr. Linda Bambara, Ph.D.
Dr. Lee Kern, Ph.D.
Lehigh University

In addition, they have over 30 other presentations from which to select. Please visit their registration site to find out additional information. Exhibitor and sponsorship information is also available. CLICK HERE

Ivy Hill is CLOSED!!

2011-02-02T11:19:00.002-05:00

Ivy Hill will be closed today due to the ice build-up and extreme flooding!

Stay safe and try to avoid driving!! We'll see everyone next week!

Bettina Eistel and Fabuleax 5

2011-02-01T20:47:00.000-05:00

Kohl's Cares Scholarship

2011-01-30T20:06:00.000-05:00

Every year, Kohl's recognizes and rewards young volunteers (ages 6-18) across the country for their amazing contributions to their communities. This year we are recognizing more than 2,100 kids with more than $415,000 in scholarships and prizes. Regional Winners will each be awarded a $1,000 scholarship for post-secondary education.National Winners will each be awarded a total of $10,000 in scholarships for post-secondary education and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each winner’s behalf.

This is a great opportunity for our volunteers to be recognized for the amazing amount of service they provide for our program. More information can be here.

(Kate Jansson and Rachel Garton assist one of our riders at Thorncroft)

New Fundraiser!!!

2011-01-25T22:45:00.004-05:00

Ivy Hill is running two Fundraisers at once! First there are wristbands for sale for $3.00. They are glow in the dark an say "To ride a horse is to ride the sky". We are also selling Gourmet Lollipops Yummy Lix for $1. Both of these are available at the barn office and can be bought at any time! All proceeds benefit Ivy Hill's Capital Campaign Fund! Please consider picking up one of these special treats next time you stop by the barn!

Christmas Bliss!!

2011-01-25T22:29:00.002-05:00

Ivy Hill would like to thank everyone who brought in presents from the horses wish list! They were all very excited!!

Sean O'Brien and Family
Gracyn Baker and Family
Bryn Rossi and Family
Janette Yost and Family
Evie Cipolla and Family
Edie Petaccio and Family
Noah Huether and Family
Matthew Runta and Family
Olivia Ruth and Family
Evan and Lindsay Wilcox and Family
Brianna and Racquet and Family
Kimberly Moyer and Family
Kali Veltri and Family
Logan Blain and Family
Regan and Eric Nacarella and Family
The McNutt Family
Bradford and Diana Walters

Welcome Amanda Haedrick!

2011-01-25T22:19:00.006-05:00

Amanda is the newest addition to our teaching staff here at Ivy Hill currently teaching on Tuesdays. She is currently attending Delaware Valley College majoring in Equine Science and a minor in Biology. Amanda also competes on the Delaware Valley College Dressage Team. Amanda has worked at two other Therapeutic Riding Centers (one in Virginia and one in Maryland), where she was in charge of things such as volunteer management, barn management, horse preparation, and some teaching elements. Amanda is currently a NARHA certified instructor, she is also certified in first aid and CPR. Make sure to say hello to Amanda and welcome her into the Ivy Hill family! Amanda, we look forward to getting to know you better!!

Labels for Education

2011-01-25T19:56:00.004-05:00

Ivy Hill is now participating in the labels for education program. With your help we can earn points towards buying supplies for lessons, summer camp, and the office! Please save all of your labels!
These are the products that participate in the Labels for Education program. With a little help we can greatly improve our program so please try to collect all your labels!

(Printable List of Products)

Lessons Friday and Saturday

2011-01-19T21:55:00.001-05:00

Lessons will be canceled on this Friday and Saturday due to extreme weather conditions! Hopefully the weather will clear up for Sunday lessons!! We look forward to seeing you next week.

Bucks County Behavioral Health System: Resiliency Conference

2011-01-19T12:46:00.005-05:00

"Below is the Resiliency Conference brochure for distribution to staff and families. The Resiliency Conference is a coordinated effort of many of the child-serving systems in Bucks County to encourage and celebrate youth and family resiliency amid life's challenges. Youth and families are encouraged to attend this event as well as professionals. Resiliency award-winners will be recognized at the conference. If you have a student you would like to nominate for demonstration of resiliency, please see nomination information in brochure."

(Click the Brochure to Enlarge)

Autism Webinar

2011-01-15T13:30:00.002-05:00

There will be a web seminar held on Sensory processing disorders held this tuesday online.

Title: The Out-of-Sync Child: How Sensory Processing Disorder
Affects Kids with ASD

Date: Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Time: 6pm Pacific (9pm Eastern)

Speaker: Carol Kranowitz
As a preschool teacher for 25 years, Carol Kranowitz observed many young children with SPD. Today she teaches parents, educators, and other professionals how sensory issues play out and suggests activities for addressing them at home and school. Carol's books and DVDs, published by Perigee Books and Sensory World, include The Out-of-Sync Child and The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun; Sensory Issues in Learning & Behavior video; a children's book, The Goodenoughs Get in Sync; and Preschool SENsory Scan for Educators (Preschool SENSE), a screening tool for therapists working with teachers. With co-author Joye Newman, she has written a new book, Growing an In-Sync Child: Simple, Fun Activities to Help Every Child Develop, Learn and Grow. Carol is a Board Member of SPD Foundation and Editor-in-Chief of S.I. Focus, the magazine devoted to sensory processing issues. She received her B.A. from Barnard College and M.A. in Education & Human Development from The George Washington University.

Description:
Parents, teachers, and other caregivers can provide fun
sensory-motor experiences to address children's sensory needs and
help them participate and communicate with their peers -
in general education or special education classrooms, on the
playground, and at home.

To post a question and attend this webinar:

http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=DydYy&m=1dPOnr6u5aCwR5&b=2p6hK8nSqPakPGDFlOb7aw

Family Fun Event: Yoga

2011-01-10T21:30:00.005-05:00

Bucks County Autism Support Coalition will be hosting another family fun night on January 29, 2011. The activity this times will be yoga! Come out and have a few laughs, learn relaxation techniques and spend quality time together. It will be held 1pm until 2:30pm at the Cornerstone Health and Fitness (740 Edison Furlong Road, Furlong PA, 18925, 215-794-3700. The cost is five dollars for two people and they ask that each individual with autism has a family member who will participate right alongside him or her!

Special Olympics Training

2011-01-10T21:22:00.004-05:00

Training for Special Olympics has begun! This is one of the most exciting times of the year for Ivy Hill. Special Olympics training marks the approaching show season! We are excited to have our veteran athletes competing again this year as well as some completely new riders to our program. From January to April each athlete has the opportunity to learn as much as they can and then compete in the Special Olympics competitions. We hope that everyone trains hard and can't wait to see how far everyone progresses over the next four months. Best of luck to all of our Special Olympics Athletes for the rest of the training season and of course in future competitions!

(Crystal about to go into the ring at Special Olympics)

Silent Auction Gift Baskets

2011-01-10T20:48:00.005-05:00

Ivy Hill is currently accepting donations for the Silent Auction! As mentioned before, the Silent Auction is one of the biggest fundraisers that Ivy Hill hosts throughout the year. Donations can include such things as theme baskets, gift cards, jewelry, art, etc. If you are interested in donating an item for the auction please email info@ivyhillequestrian.org or call the barn phone and leave a message on extension 5. As always we look forward to seeing you at the Silent Auction on March 12th!

(Examples of Baskets Donated Last Year)

Lessons on Monday!

2011-01-10T20:21:00.002-05:00

Sarah Barnabas will stop teaching lessons at the end of January. Sarah has made an invaluable contribution to our program by helping us to further grow and develop our Hippotherapy program. Although we are extremely sad to see her leave we wish her the best of luck in her new job and send our sincere thanks for all she has done for Ivy Hill. Hopefully she will stop by and see everyone once and a while cause we would love to see her!

As we say goodbye to Sarah we welcome Vicki Naugler who will be taking over every other Monday. Megan has worked with Vicki at a previous Therapeutic Riding Center since she was nine years old. Vicki had to stop teaching due to the increasing pace of her children's lives, but now that they have grown up she is willing to once again begin teaching again. Last year Vicki expressed interest in once again picking up lessons but there was difficulty with getting a concrete schedule. When Megan called her recently to ask if she would like to teach again she was very excited. We look forward to getting to know Vicki as she begins to teach with our program!
Vicki will be teaching on February 7th and 28th, after that she will be teaching every other Monday. Student lesson times will remain the same.

Silent Auction Save the Date

2011-01-07T17:02:00.002-05:00

The date for the Silent Auction has been set and the Save the Dates have been sent out! The Silent Auction is one of Ivy Hill's biggest fundraisers and is also one of our most fun events! The Silent Auction brings together students, families, staff, the board of directors, and other supporters of Ivy Hill to create a fun night for everyone. The Silent Auction will be held on March 12, 2011 at 6pm. It will be held at the Indian Valley Country Club and the cost is $75 a person. Kids rates and dinners are available, please contact Ivy Hill for more information. As always entertainment will be provided (more details to come later), and many exciting items will be up for auction! Please save the date of our biggest event and we look forward to seeing everyone there!

Holiday Party

2011-01-02T19:08:00.003-05:00

Staff and Volunteers.

Ivy Hill's Holiday Party will be January 9th at 3pm.
At 892 Rising Sun Road, Telford, PA

Please RSVP we would like for everyone to attend.

The barn will be CLOSED for lessons after 2pm on this Sunday to allow for ALL staff and VOLUNTEERS to be able to attend. Bring your self, bring your husband, bring your boyfriend, bring your girlfriend, bring your soon to be...

Please let me know how many people will be coming. RSVP to mstrychowski@ivyhilleqeustrian.org

Thank you

Megan and Ivy Hill Board of Directors

Winter

2010-12-16T16:49:00.004-05:00

Well Winter has really begun and it has brought the frigid weather with it! As we move forward towards the colder of the Winter months Ivy Hill would like to remind everyone to dress warmly! Remember layers are the key! Unfortunately the barn does not have any kind of heating so in order to make lessons during the winter as comfortable as possible please remember to put on extra warm layers and bundle up as much as possible. (Multiple socks are highly suggested!) As always we look forward to seeing everyone at the barn and we hope you can stay as warm as possible!!

(Summer will be here before we know it!)

Lessons Canceled!

2010-12-14T08:41:00.002-05:00

Lessons have been canceled today due to the high wind chill! We hope to see you all next week when the whether will hopefully be a little nicer!

Horse Sponsors 2011

2010-12-09T22:09:00.002-05:00

Looking for an exciting gift for your child or loved one? Ivy Hill is now accepting horse sponsorships for the 2011 year. All horses are available for sponsorship and can be sponsored for a season, half a year, or an entire year. Horse sponsorship are to help with the cost of maintaining our thirteen horses, in a healthy condition. Horses are an expensive animal to keep happy due to the cost of feed, veterinary services and shoeing. (Shoes alone can cost over $120 every six weeks.) Sponsorships help to alleviate some of the expense and helps us keep our horses happy and healthy!Please consider sponsoring your or your child's favorite equine this holiday season!

Ivy Hill's Website

2010-12-09T00:56:00.002-05:00

The Ivy Hill website has received a face lift! New pictures have been added to the website as well as having the profiles of our new instructors and horses being updated. The website is one of our main sources of getting information out to our supporters so make sure to check it for updates!

Welcome to Dina and Chris

2010-12-07T23:57:00.002-05:00

Ivy Hill would like to welcome our two new instructors Dina Pietrangelo and Chris Geller!
Chris Geller bring many years of experience to Ivy Hill. Chris grew up showing, driving, trail riding, and fox hunting. She still owns her own barn in Coopersburg! Chris has been a Therapeutic Instructor for thirteen years working with both adults and children with mental and physical disabilities. She received her NARHA certification in 1995. Christ also has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Elementary Education.

Dina Pietrangelo began teaching with Ivy Hill in October of 2010. She brings with her experience from other Therapeutic programs in the area. Dina is also a NARHA Registered Instructor.

Ivy Hill is alway excited to have new staff enter our family. Every new instructor brings a wealth of experience with them and allows us to grow and mature as a program! It also adds the opportunity for more students to become part of our program! Again we send a warm welcome to Dina and Chris as they enter into the the Ivy Hill family!

Stocking Stuffers!

2010-12-02T21:45:00.004-05:00

As we continue to draw closer to the holiday season Ivy Hill has some small gifts that would be perfect for those partially full stockings! Currently in stock we have some Ivy Hill paraphernalia including; car magnets ($3), water bottles ($8), and there is still some clothing in stock. The next round of clothing orders will not be until the Spring but Megan still has some sizes in stock. Check in with her to find out what's in stock!

Also in stock is the book Dasher's Lucky Shoe by Robin Lightner. It’s a fun story of Santa delivering gifts to a special children's ranch in Wyoming. Dasher, Santa's lead reindeer loses a shoe as they land on the rooftop at this special ranch. Fortunately for Santa, the ranch has a children's therapeutic riding program, and their blacksmith, Big John, comes to the rescue.

Over the years the children at this special needs ranch collected reindeer shoes, and one is included in this package.
Megan has five more books in stock for the price of $18 dollars. When supplies run out more books can be ordered directly from the flyer hanging up at the barn. >

Also for sale are the tickets to win a 1975 Corvette! Only 1,100 tickets are going to be sold for $20 each. The drawing will take place on March 21, 2011, at Ivy Hill's Annual Silent Auction and Dinner. All proceeds from this sale benefit Ivy Hill!

Bring a little bit of the barn home with you this Holiday. As always, on behalf of all Ivy Hill staff, Happy Holidays!

Special Olympics Training

2010-11-30T21:57:00.006-05:00

Well it's that time of year again! The countdowns have begun, 25 days until Christmas, 31 Days until the New Year, but most importantly 32 days until the beginning of training for Special Olympics! Training for Special Olympics begins in January and runs through April when the first competition is held. The competitions, hosted by Special Olympics, are one of the biggest opportunities for our students to compete and show everyone how much they have improved throughout the year. There are two major competitions in the Special Olympics program. The Special Olympics qualifiers are a competition between the two Therapeutic programs in Bucks County; Ivy Hill Equestrian and One Step At A Time. Competitors who do well in this show earn a chance to move on to the Summer Games held at Penn State University. Here athletes compete with other riders from therapeutic riding centers from all over the state! This is always one of the most exciting weekends for the entire program, including riders, volunteers, instructors, and parents.

As we approach this holiday season remember to sign up, or sign your child up, to train and compete in Special Olympics! In order to be eligible all athletes must have a Special Olympics medical on file. The medical can be found by clicking on this link http://www.ivyhillequestrian.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/SO_MEDICAL.355101351.pdf

Also volunteers must have all paperwork done in order to be able to accompany athletes to Special Olympics at Penn State. Paperwork can be found at this link http://www.ivyhillequestrian.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/Volunteer_Registration_Form.355101312.pdf

Volunteer must also complete an online training session at this site

http://staging.specialolympics.org/protective_behaviors.aspx#

Once it is completed the results should be emailed to Megan at mstrychowski@ivyhillequestrian.org.

Any questions or concerns please contact Megan at mstrychowski@ivyhillequestrian.org or the next time you are at the barn!

Coin Drive

2010-11-29T15:39:00.007-05:00

We have reached our first checkpoint in the Coin Drive! Ivy Hill is hosting a Coin Drive to help raise money for the capital campaign fund which supports us in our goal to obtain a property of our own. The first coin container was cashed in recently and the total was $241.10! The coin drive started in October and will continue until March 12th. Ivy Hill is hoping to raise $1000 from this coin drive so we could use everyone's help. Please remember to save your spare change and make a difference in helping Ivy Hill continue to grow towards owning a property of our very own!

Halloween Weekend Brings Close to Ivy Hill Show Season

2010-11-14T11:37:00.002-05:00

Ivy Hill Therapeutic Equestrian Center, Hilltown, ended their show season on Saturday with their annual fall home show. Although it was a chilly day, so many family and friends came out to support all the competing students. Classes included trail, equitation and a costume class. This show was widely attended by students and their family and friends.

The Fall Home Show was the last in a growing number of shows students are able to participate in throughout the showing season. Over the past few years, Ivy Hill has expanded the competition opportunities offered to students due in large part to the truck and trailer they were able to purchase. These purchases were made possible through many donations as well as grants from Farm & Home Oil Charitable Fund (now Longacre Family Foundation) and First Savings Community Foundation.

The season starts in early spring with the Special Olympic County Show for Bucks County and is followed by Ivy Hill’s Spring Home Show.

Next up, students head to Malvern, PA to compete in the Handicapped Rider’s Division of The Devon Horse Show. This show is always a favorite among students and staff. Horses also compete in this show and can win the coveted Therapeutic Horse of the Year Award presented at the Devon Show Grounds. While our two nominated horses Duncan & Charlie did not win, four students received special honors from HRE: Madison G. and Amy G. tied for the E. W. Garbisch Reserve Champion, which is given for the highest score in Equitation. Crystal Rhodes was awarded Reserve Champion for the Francis DeRuschi award which, is given for the highest score in Division I. And lastly, Sean O’Brien was awarded both the Brushwood Trophy, given for the highest combined score of dressage and equitation, and the Thorncroft Perpetual Trophy, given for the highest combined score in Equitation, Trail, and Dressage in Division III. What a great show for Ivy Hill students!!

In early June, students from Ivy Hill and One Step at a Time, Pineville, represent Bucks County at the Pennsylvania Summer Special Olympics at State College, PA. Twelve Ivy Hill students went to the State Games this year and had a wonderful time. They love making new friends at the state games while competing in Dressage, Equitation, Trail, Showmanship, and Team Relays. No trip to Penn State would be complete without a visit to the Creamery for Ice Cream. It truly is an amazing experience for our students.

Throughout the summer, students compete at dressage shows at the Bucks County Horse Park on Tuesday nights. These are great learning shows for students to glean feedback from someone other than their instructors. It is also a great opportunity for students to show off the skills they work hard to master each week.

In the fall, students look forward to the Fall Show at Thorncroft, Inc., a therapeutic program located in Malvern, PA. Students compete in jumping, equitation, trail and dressage classes. The beautiful fall weather and setting make this show another favorite among students.

Several Ivy Hill students also participate in the Pink Ribbon Ride held annually at the Bucks County Horse Park to raise money for Breast Cancer. They love decorating their horses with pink ribbons, saddle pads and wraps for this cross country ride.

This year Ivy Hill students were asked to participate in the Delaware State Special Olympic Show for the first time. Seven students from Ivy Hill participated in this show and had a great time.

Opportunities for Clients, Families, Staff & Volunteers

2010-11-02T16:17:00.003-04:00

A few opportunities to share:

BCASC Parent Forum

Date: Monday, November 8, 2010
Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: Doylestown Health & Wellness Center, 847 Easton Road, Warrington (in the Doylestown Room on the lower level of the building.)

The group is open to all, including parents, grandparents and guardians or children and teens and adults on the autism spectrum in Bucks County and surrounding areas. Parents of children with autism spectrum disorders often feel socially isolated and have difficulty finding information and support. With that in mind, the goals of the BCASC PARENT FORUM would be:

1. To provide parents of children on the autism spectrum an opportunity to meet, socialize and make new friends

2. To share information with each other on such topics as behavior concerns, meeting medical needs, different therapies, diet, sensory processing needs, education, etc.

3. To be a source of support, understanding and hope to parents as they care for their ASD children

4. To keep parents informed of BCASC activities, such as volunteer opportunities, family fun nights, membership meetings, fundraisers and the annual conference

The group will be an open forum, with no pre-planned agenda. Discussion will revolve around areas of concern or interest to the parents in attendance.

Contact MIgnasiak@bcasc.org for more details

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Parents Support Group

Date: 2nd Friday of every month
Time: 7:00pm-8:30pm
Where: Ivyland Counseling Center , 1210 Old York Road, Suite 202 , Warminster , PA 18974

To register for this PARENTS GROUP or for more information please contact:

Rosalie Jacobs M.Ed, BCB at rjacobs@ivylandcounselingcenter.com or 215-444-9204, ext. 13

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Additional Events are on these websites please check them out. A lot of them are low cost.

Bucks County Autism Support Coalition
http://www.bcasc.org/

Autism Cares Foundation
http://autismcaresfoundation.org/acf_home.php

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BCASC Community Presentation on Autism
Date:Thursday, December 2, 2010
Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Where: Doylestown Health & Wellness Center,
847 Easton Road, Warrington (in the Doylestown Room on the lower level of the building.)

This is a free presentation to the public on Autism with Q&A at the end.

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Youngstrand

2010-11-01T13:11:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Sarah & Ryan who were married on Saturday, October 23rd. The ceremony & reception were held in Emmaus with a beautiful outdoor wedding and barn reception. Moments before Sarah walked down the aisle, the sun broke through the clouds & remained shining for the entire ceremony.

Best wishes as you begin your lives together!!

Acting Antics for the Entire Family

2010-10-28T14:28:00.001-04:00

Passing along this opportunity to our clients & their families.

Acting Antics is a non-profit organization providing outlets for individuals on the autism spectrum to utilize music and theatre as a means to improve social connections while having FUN.

Register early as space is limited to 10 families per group.

**Keep in mind that the intention is to get the entire family involved in activities**

Group 1: Movin' & Groovin'

This session will focus on using music, movement, and games targeting skills such as following directions, motor planning, and turn-taking. Songs make use of costume pieces, rhythm instruments or props, and are fun for entire family! This session can accommodate individuals of all developmental levels.

Group 2: Theatre games

This session involves interactive theatre and improvisation games, and is great fun for those individuals who have fairly good verbal skills. The games are group-oriented so that everyone can be comfortable and no one is put in the spotlight unless they choose to be!

Saturday, November 6, 2010
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Log College Middle School, 730 Norristown Rd, Warminster, PA 18974

Register by emailing jschmon@bcasc.org and include:

*Family name

*Number of participants

*Group choice (#1 or #2)

Our Friend Skip

2010-10-13T08:04:00.002-04:00

Ivy Hill had Skip for 3 years and loved every minute we had with him. When we retired him at 28 his body could not keep up with his mind.

Sadly, Skip passed away on Monday night. He was 31 years old. They brought him in from the field and after eating he laid down in his stall and fell asleep.

We send him along the Rainbow Bridge with Spot, Tonka and all the other horses that have served our students over the years!

Ivy Hill Students Win Big at Thorncroft

2010-10-11T13:24:00.003-04:00

Ivy Hill students do it again with another banner day at Thorncroft Equestrian Center. All riders did a great job in their classes and it was a beautiful fall day to ride and watch the show. Riders enjoyed watching, competing, and cheering on other riders from Ivy Hill. The team work was great and family and friends were on hand to watch and support our riders as well.

14 riders, 5 horses, 4 instructors, and 6 volunteers attended the show.

Ivy Hill riders had many comments from the dressage ring such as: your circles were great, you have improved so much, you worked really well with that horse, good precision and energy between you and your horse, and good attention to detail.

Comments from the equitation ring included: you sat nice and tall, good posting, you kept your space nicely, and good control while steering.

Judges in those two rings have noticed an improvement in our riders who they have seen competing at Thorncroft for years. Judges were also excited to see some new faces. "Keep up the good work" they all kept saying!

Results from the show:

Gia A
Equitation- 2nd
Trail- 4th
Dressage- 2nd

Maria B
Equitation- 1st
Trail- 1st
Dressage- 3rd

Brianna B
Equitation- 2nd
Trail- 5th
Dressage- 5th

Kendra D
Equitation- 1st
Trail- 2nd
Dressage- 1st

Madison G
Equitation- 4th
Trail- 6th
Dressage- 4th

Justin M
Equitation- 4th
Trail- 5th
Dressage- ?

Madison M
Equitation- 4th
Trail- 4th

Sean O
Equitation- 1st
Trail- 1st
Dressage-1st

Brianna R
Equitation- 5th
Trail- 2nd
Dressage- ?

Crystal R
Equitation- 1st
Trail- 3rd
Dressage - 1st

Bryn R
Equitation- 4th
Trail- 5th

Barbara T
Equitation- 2nd
Trail- 2nd
Dressage- 2nd

Kali V
Equitation- 2nd
Trail- 4th
Dressage- 1st

Connor W
Equitation- 2nd
Trail- 3rd

Way to go Ivy Hill riders. You make us proud every day!!!

Place Your Fall Clothing Orders Now

2010-09-28T08:15:00.003-04:00

It's time for our semi-annual Ivy Hill clothing sale. Orders are now being taken for fall/winter clothing with Ivy Hill's logo on them. Orders and payment are due no later than October 30th.
Orders will arrive before the holidays.

The following items are available to order:
Adult Items:
T-Shirt - your choice of black or forest - small, medium, large or x-large $15.00 each
Long Sleeve Shirt - your choice of black or forest - small, medium, large or x-large $20.00 each
Hooded Sweatshirts - your choice of black or forest - small, medium, large or x-large $30.00 each
Fleece Vest - Forest - small, medium, large or x-large $35.00 each
Jacket - Forest - small, medium, large or x-large $65.00 each

Children Items:
T-Shirt your choice of black or forest - small, medium, large or x-large $12.00 each
Long Sleeve Shirt - your choice of black or forest - small, medium, large or x-large $17.00 each
Hooded Sweatshirts - your choice of black or forest - small, medium, large or x-large $27.00 each
Fleece Vest - Forest - small, medium, large or x-large $30.00 each
Jacket - Forest - small, medium or large (no x-large available) $60.00 each

General Items:
Winter Hat - Forest - One Size Fits All - $15.00
Winter Scarf - Forest - One Size Fits All - $15.00
Winter Ear Warmers - Forest - One Size Fits All - $12.00
Baseball Cap - Forest or Stone - One Size Fits All - $15.00

Please contact Megan Strychowski with orders and any questions you may have. She can be reached at (267) 261-5467 or via email at mstrychowski@ivyhillequestrian.org.

Also, at the Home Show on October 30th, we will have water bottles and car magnets for sale as well. These items are in stock now!

Children's Rights and Access to Services

2010-09-27T13:34:00.004-04:00

Ivy Hill would like to pass on the following information to any clients, families, volunteers, etc. who may benefit from this webinar. This came to us from a local Autism Support Group. Thanks!
*********************************
It's back to school time and many of you are facing a new school
year as an advocate for your child's rights to services both in
school and in the larger outside world. Understandably, you probably
have lots of questions and concerns about your child's rights and
access to services.

That's why we are fortunate to have Ms. Areva Martin, Attorney at
Law, who will be answering your questions. Ms. Martin is a sought
after syndicated columnist and author of two books on special needs
advocacy.

Her latest book is titled "The Everyday Advocate: Standing Up for
Your Child with Autism"

She is also a regular on the Dr. Phil Show and CBS The Early Show.
And like you, she has a child with autism so this will be a special
opportunity for you to ask questions and get answers.

Time: 6PM Pacific (9PM Eastern)
Date: Wednesday, September 29, 2010

I encourage you not to miss this live 2 hour webinar. To register
for this free event please click the link below:

http://www.momsfightingautism.com/teleseminar/

BCASC Speaker Series

2010-09-17T08:04:00.001-04:00

Sexuality and the Spectrum
Teaching Appropriate Behaviors and Dealing with Inappropriate Ones

This speaker series meeting on October 4th will feature Dr. Frank Cicero.

Dr. Cicero serves the autism community as the Director of Psychological Services for the Eden II program in New Jersey. He is a certified school psychologist receiving his Masters degree in school psychology from St. John's University and his Doctorate in Educational Psychology from the City University of New York Graduate Center. He is also a board certified behavior analyst. In addition to his position at Eden II, Dr. Cicero is an adjunct instructor in applied behavior analysis at Caldwell College, New Jersey, conducts social skills training groups for children and adults with Asperger's disorder and is currently on the board of the New York State Association for Behavior Analysis. He frequently conducts workshops, consultations and research presentations nationally.

When: Monday, October 4th
Time: 7:00p.m.
Where: The Bucks County Intermediate Unit, 705 N. Shady Retreat Road, Doylestown, PA 18901

BCIU Free Training Seminar

2010-09-07T10:01:00.001-04:00

Best Wishes Becca & Julia!!

2010-08-24T07:21:00.005-04:00

It's that time of year again...back to school time. This year, two Ivy Hill Instructors, Becca & Julia, have headed off to college. Both have been with Ivy Hill for several years and are part of the family. We know their students will miss them as much as we will.

In June Becca graduated from Souderton High School. She is attending Kutztown University where she will major in Special Education K-4.

In June Julia graduated from Lansdale Catholic. She is attending Penn State University'a Main Campus where she will have a duel major in Pre-Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. Julia received the Arthur P. Lingousky Scholarship.

We would like to wish them the best of luck as they begin a new chapter in their lives. We will miss you!!

Barn Closed for Special Olympics State Competition

2010-06-08T08:29:00.002-04:00

Please note there are no lessons starting today through Monday, June 16th. Lessons will resume on Tuesday, June 17th. Best of luck to all our Special Olympic athletes traveling to Penn State University this week for the Pennsylvania Special Olympic State Games. Have fun!!!

Photos from Devon!

2010-06-07T10:22:00.004-04:00

Here are just a few photos from Devon on Memorial Day Weekend. Thank you Instructor Julia MacMinn for allowing us to use your photos. Enjoy!!

Ivy Hill Riders Win Big at Devon

2010-06-05T12:18:00.008-04:00

Congratulations Ivy Hill riders!!!! Last Saturday 17 Ivy Hill riders competed at Thorncoft as part of the Handicapped Division of the Devon Horse Show. Riders had a great day of showing. Classes included trail, equitation, dressage and jumping. Not only do riders earn ribbons for each class they compete in, they also compete for trophies for overall performance as well. As always Ivy Hill horses are competing as well.

Over the past three years, Ivy Hill has returned to the winner's circle at the Dixon Oval on Sunday at the Devon Horse Show for trophies and championships - in 2007 & 2008 Ivy Hill horses Blue & Bean won Therapeutic Horse of the Year & were presented with ribbons and a cooler (blanket) in the Dixon Oval. Last year Crystal Rhodes & Sean O'Brien competed at HRE and then went to the Dixon Oval to receive their awards: Crystal was awarded Champion for the Anne Joyce Cocharne Perpetual Memorial Trophy, Reserve Champion for the Francis de Ruschi Perpetual Trophy, and Reserve Champion for the Brushwood Trophy. Sean O'Brien was awarded Champion for the Thorncroft Perpetual Trophy and Reserve Champion for the Anne Joyce Cochrane Perpetual Memorial Trophy.

This year was no different!! All riders did a great job and lots of ribbons were earned. The following Champion and Reserve Champion awards were won by Ivy Hill riders:

Madison G. and Amy G. tied for Reserve Champion of the E.W Garbisch Trophy for highest score in equitation.
Crystal R. was Reserve Champion for the Francis deRuschi Trophy for highest overall score in Division I.
Sean O. was Champion for The Brushwood Trophy awarded for the highest combined score in dressage and equitation.
Sean also won the Thorncroft Perpetual Trophy for the highest combined score in trail equitation and dressage for Division III.

All in all, Ivy Hill riders participated in 49 individual events.

Thank you to all staff and volunteers who helped make this such a special day for our riders. It was a long day with a lot of work but hopefully the smiles and ribbons made it all worthwhile in the end.

Stayed tuned for pictures from the day & awards at Devon.

A Parent's Perspective

2010-06-03T21:06:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, 17 Ivy Hill riders participated in 49 individual events at the 31st Annual Handicapped Riders Division of the Devon Horse Show. It was a long day for staff, horses, riders and volunteers. However, it is a day every rider looks forward to. To get the opportunity to ride at Devon is a huge event! This year was no different. Our riders did a fantastic job. After the event (which will be featured in another post shortly), the following email was received from one rider's family. I think it speaks for iteself and so I wanted to share it with all of you.

"Congratulations to instructors and volunteers as well. What a great showing for the Ivy Hill Riders and Horses!

17 riders competing 49 individual events, 3 Reserve Champions and Sean returning to the Devon Fair Grounds for, I think, the second time. Great Job, Sean! We were at Thorncroft to see several Ivy Hill competitors, including our son, and I witnessed Ivy Hill riders with courage, confidence and smiles. (especially Amy in Equitation - cool, calm and confident with a great smile the whole time. It was a great program to watch.)

This program builds character in their students and indeed, it starts with you and all the instructors and volunteers. The tireless hours you spend in the ring with these children as well as the uncountless hours that you spend caring for our horses, are, in my opinion, what makes Ivy Hill special.

As parents who have beared witness to the growth and maturity in this program for the last 8 years - Ivy Hill has made untold gains in the growth and maturity of the students; and truth be told, you make it look easy, although, and I speak for all of us parents, we fully know how much preparation, desire, dedication, discipline, as well as love, you invest into Ivy Hill's riders and horses that today, and everyday, makes a difference in ways that you cannot possibly know. But, we know.

With appreciation and gratitude, we wish you Congratulations on the outstanding accomplishments demonstrated today at Thorncroft.

All the best,

Greg and Bev

PS - we are pulling for Charlie and Duncan in Best Therapeutic Horse competition and wish them best of luck."

Stay tuned for results and pictures of Devon.

Best of Luck

2010-05-29T10:22:00.002-04:00

Ivy Hill staff & Board of Directors would like to wish all riders competing in the Handicapped Division of the Devon Horse Show today Best of Luck!! Riders and horses from Ivy Hill are at Thorncroft, Inc. in Malvern today competing in dressage, trail and equitation classes. What a perfect day for a horse show!! Thank you to all staff and volunteers who are working hard today assisting our riders at the show.

Memorial Day Weekend Schedule

2010-05-24T08:57:00.001-04:00

Ivy Hill will be closed on Saturday, Sunday & Monday (May 29th, 30th & 31st). Lessons will resume on Tuesday, June 1st.

Have a safe & happy holiday weekend!!

Volunteers Needed

2010-05-21T13:16:00.000-04:00

Ivy Hill is in need of volunteers for the following days and times:

Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Satruday & Sundays: 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

No horse experience is needed - we provide training. Please contact Megan Strychowski at (215) 822-2515 ext. 3 or mstrychowski@ivyhillequestrian.org.

Thank you!

New Mailing Address

2010-05-18T15:17:00.001-04:00

Effective Immediately:

Ivy Hill's mailing address has changed. Please update your records. Our new mailing address is:

P.O. Box 394

Perkasie, PA 18944

Our facility address remains unchanged.

How to Fit a Dressage Saddle 101

2010-05-12T09:36:00.000-04:00

Are you a horse owner? Have you ever wondered how to properly fit a dressage saddle? Well here's your chance your learn. Click on the link below & watch the video from http://www.equisearch.com/. It will give you the basics on fitting a dressage saddle.

http://www.equisearch.com/resources/video/dressage_saddle_fit_022510/utm_source=edt&utm_medium=nl&utm_campaign=eqs

If you are unable to click on the link, please cut & paste into your browser & you will be able to view it from there.

Fabric Needed

2010-05-10T10:24:00.000-04:00

This summer we will be workiing with the kids at camp to make pillow cases for children at Children's Hospital. We are looking for fabric donations to create the pillow cases. Any fabric any design will do. They are supposed to be wild pillowcases. Below is a sample of a pillow case that was made for these children. To donate fabric, please drop off at the barn or contact Megan Strychowski at (215) 822-2515 ext. 1 or mstrychowski@ivyhillequestrian.org

Thank you for your support as we help other children in need.

Special Olympic County Show Results

2010-04-29T10:48:00.000-04:00

On April 11th, 23 students from Ivy Hill competed at the Special Olympic Equestrian County Show held in Pineville, PA. Forty Special Olympic Athletes spent a minimum of ten weeks training at Ivy Hill and One Step At a Time (OSAT) from January through April as part of the Bucks County Special Olympics Equestrian Program. On the 11th, they competed in trail, equitation and dressage classes.

In June, 26 altheles from Ivy Hill & OSAT will represent Bucks County at The Pennsylvania Special Olympic Summer Games held at Penn State University. This is an amazing event lasting three days. Athletes participate in open & closing ceremonies, various equestrian competitions and many fun activities throughout the weekend. Athletes get the chance to stay in the dorms, eat the cafeteria food and get a little taste of college life as they "take over" Penn State's campus.

Ivy Hill staff and Board of Directors would like to congratulate our Special Olympic athletes for their hard work and dedication - they do an amazing job representing Bucks County each year. We would also like to wish them the Best of Luck as they prepare to travel to Penn State in a little over a month's time.

Ivy Hill In Action

2010-04-28T11:47:00.000-04:00

You can see Ivy Hill in action at the following upcoming events:

Today, April 28th - The 3rd Annual Non-Profit Volunteer Fair, sponsored by First Savings, 4 to 7p.m. at the Plumsteadville Fire House. Ivy Hill is always looking for additional volunteers to help with lessons and barn work as well as special events throughout the year.

May 1 & 2nd - Ivy Hill home show. This is a great opportunity to see our clients show off the skills they practice each week during their lessons. Classes will include dressage, equitation, jumping and trail. The classes begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday morning and on Sunday.

May 29th & 30th - The Handicapped Division of the Devon Horse Show - held at Thorncroft, Inc., Malvern, PA - this horse show is a favorite for our riders. Held in picturesque Malvern, this is an all day show with dressage, trail, equitation and jumping classes. Riders who win trophies & perpetual awards are invited to compete on Sunday Morning at Devon in the Dixon Oval - truly a high honor. Last year Ivy Hill's Crystal & Sean both received trophies and competed on Sunday in the Dixon Oval. And let's not forget Ivy Hill's horses. They are competing as well. Ivy Hill's Blue and Bean were awarded the prestigious Therapeutic Horse of the Year Award in 2007 and 2008 respectively.

May 31st - The barn will be closed in celebration of Memorial Day.

June 8-14th - Barn Closed for Special Olympic State Competition.

June 10-13th - Special Olympics @ Penn State University - join 12 of Ivy Hill's students at the compete at Special Olympic State Games!! This is a fun weekend of competition with athletes from all over Pennsylvania. Students stay in the dorms at Penn State and enjoy all the activities of Special Olympic competition including opening & closing ceremonies.

June 15th - Regularly scheduled lessons resume today.

July 4th - Barn Closed in Observation of July 4th Holiday

July 31st - Trenton Thunder Baseball Fundraiser - Ivy Hill will again host a night of Trenton Thunder Baseball on July 31st. Ivy Hill has 100 seats reserved for us. This Saturday night game has a 7:05 pm start time and includes fireworks. Tickets are $11.00 each and are on sale now! Those who went last year had a great time.

For tickets, please see any instructor or contact Megan Strychowski at (215) 822-2515ext. 1. Deadline for ticket purchase is June 25th.

Please help support Ivy Hill while enjoying a great baseball game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Thank you Volunteers!!!

2010-04-27T07:57:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, April 24th, a group of 10 volunteers from the South Eastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Synod's annual youth "Helping Hands Day" spent the day at Ivy Hill. They cleaned up our flower beds for the summer. The volunteers were from two local Lutheran congregations. More than forty social service organizations in the five county area were helped by several hundred youth on Saturday. Our flower beds look great - thank you volunteers for all your help and hard work!!

The SEPA Synod is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. Their mission is to lead youth into a closer relationship with Christ by offering opportunities to explore their faith through worship, expanded Christian relationships and through life-transforming experiences. For more information about their program, please visit their website: http://www.ministrylink.org/ministries/youth/

Local Strangles Outbreak - Please Read

2010-04-25T17:16:00.001-04:00

Dear Parents, Staff, Volunteers;

A local barn has had several recent cases of Strangles. Strangles is an extremely contagious disease for horses. For more information on Strangles, please click the link below:
http://www.horses-and-horse-information.com/articles/0196stran.shtml

If any volunteers, staff or clients visit other barns, please take the following steps to help prevent a Strangles outbreak here at Ivy Hill: If you are coming to Ivy Hill directly from another barn, please make sure you change your clothing and shoes. Please wash hands with antibacterial soap or shower first when possible.

Thank you for helping to prevent Ivy Hill horses from getting Strangles.

Please feel free to ask questions or for more information.

Thank you,
Megan

April 29th Free Parenting & Family Workshop

2010-04-21T08:34:00.000-04:00

No Child Left Inside is a free parenting & family workshop presented by the Lenape Valley Foundation. Held at the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce (Suite 23, 252 W. Swamp Road, Doylestown), this wokshop will give you ideas on why & how to get your child outside for unstructured outdoor time. Time is 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Space is limited - please call 215-348-3913 or email info@centralbuckschamber.com

Trenton Thunder Baseball Fundraiser

2010-04-19T07:13:00.001-04:00

Ivy Hill will again host a night of Trenton Thunder Baseball on July 31st. Ivy Hill has 100 seats reserved for us. This Saturday night game has a 7:05 pm start time and includes fireworks. Tickets are $11.00 each and are on sale now! Those who went last year had a great time.

For tickets, please see any instructor or contact Megan Strychowski at (215) 822-2515ext. 1. Deadline for ticket purchase is June 25th.

Please help support Ivy Hill while enjoying a great baseball game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Congratulations to Instructor Julia MacMinn

2010-04-07T10:31:00.000-04:00

Julia MacMinn, one of our Ivy Hill's instructors, successfully completed the registered level instructor certification process through NARHA. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, NARHA’s mission is to “change and enrich lives by promoting excellence in equine assisted activities.” To accomplish this mission, NARHA fosters safe, professional, ethical and therapeutic equine activities through education, communication, research and standards. The association ensures its standards are met through an accreditation process for centers and a certification process for instructors. Ivy Hill is in the process of center certification & part of that process is helping all instructors achieve instructor certification. Julia is our 4th instructor to achieve certification through NARHA.

Julia started volunteering with Ivy Hill in 2005 after seeing a flyer about Ivy Hill at the Indian Valley Public Library. She has been teaching for one year.

Julia will be graduating from Lansdale Catholic this spring and in the fall is heading to Penn State University's main campus where she will pursue a duel major in Pre-Vet and Bio Medical Science.

Please offer congratulations to Julia when you see her at the barn or at upcoming horse shows. Becoming a NARHA registered level instructor is a great accomplishment!! Congratulations Julia!!!!

Ivy Hill Receives Educational Stipend from the North Penn Nonprofit Academy

2010-03-17T09:44:00.000-04:00

Ivy Hill was recently awarded an educational stipend from the North Penn Nonprofit Academy. This stipend will allow Ivy Hill staff to attend continuing education opportunities to further their knowledge of therapuetic horsemanship, disabilities, and a variety of other topics.

The North Penn Nonprofit Academy is a series of workshops and events aimed at bolstering the important work of nonprofit leaders in North Penn's health & human services community. For more information about The North Penn Nonprofit Academy, please visit their website at www.npcollab.org/content/04-npacademy.php

Silent Auction a Success!!

2010-03-14T08:25:00.001-04:00

Thank you to everyone who braved the rain, wind, flooding & mud yesterday to help make our 4th annual silent auction a huge success. A great time was had by all & Marvin Blickenstaff performed another fantastic piano program.

More information, additional thank you's and photos will be posted shortly.

Vote for April & Bean!!

2010-03-13T09:50:00.000-05:00

Karen Brenner, who painted April & Bean this past year, has announced a contest: Vote for Your Favorite Beautiful Horses of Pennsylvania Painting. Our painting of April & Bean are among the nominees.

You can vote two times - one by going to this link & casting your vote:
http://www.karenbrenner.com/beautiful_horses_of_PA.html

and by visitng Karen's booth at the Horse Expo in Allentown on Saturday, April 10th from 10 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

If April & Bean's painting win, their painting will be featured in Karen's Cafe Press Shop on all sorts of gift items!!! Let's help them win!!

Their painting is under Jumping Bean & April Fire.

Volunteers Needed

2010-03-11T07:25:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone - Ivy Hill is in immediate need of additional volunteers to help with barn work every day both in the morning & the afternoon.

We are also in need of weekday lesson help as well. Lesson help is needed for weekends as well.

You don't need any prior horse experience, we offer training to all volunteers who come to Ivy Hill. Please contact Megan Strychowski at (215) 822-2515 ext. 1 or through email at: mstrchowski@ivyhillequestrian.org

Thank you for your help!!

Around the Farm at Ivy Hill

Christmas Dance

Fall Home Show

Applebee's Fundraiser!

Fall Thorncroft

Special Olympics Registration

Happy Halloween!

Post Secondary Opportunities Expo

Pancake Breakfast is Coming Up Fast!

Clothing for Sale!

Flapjack Fundraiser!

Sharing and Caring

Coin Jar

Soccer!

Silent Majority Clothing

Sharing and Caring Group

It's A Wonderful Life

Helmet Exchange

USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage Team

North Penn School District

Upcoming Events Hosted by the BCASC

Hurricane Update

Thank You

Ivy Hill Home Show Spring 2011

Thorncroft Spring 2011

Coins for the Capital Fund

Prom Night at Council Rock

Thank You Bit of Heaven

Special Olympics

Thank You!!

April

Please spread the word and join us for a showing of the Wretches & Jabberers documentary !

Variety's Autism Awareness Day at Sesame Place

Silent Auction Pictures

New Faces Around Ivy Hill

The Autism Society of America, Greater Philadelphia Chapter: Autism Awareness Day at the Philadelphia Zoo

Autism Awareness Night at the Phillies

Variety's Autism Awareness Night at Please Touch Museum

NARHA Photo Contest

Equine Welfare Tip From the Equine Welfare Committee

NARHA 2011 Awards Nominations

Summer Camp Grant

The 2011 Autism Grant is Available

Special Needs Resources Fair!

4th Annual BCASC Autism Conference

Ivy Hill is CLOSED!!

Bettina Eistel and Fabuleax 5

Kohl's Cares Scholarship

New Fundraiser!!!

Christmas Bliss!!

Welcome Amanda Haedrick!

Labels for Education

Lessons Friday and Saturday

Bucks County Behavioral Health System: Resiliency Conference

Autism Webinar

Family Fun Event: Yoga

Special Olympics Training

Silent Auction Gift Baskets

Lessons on Monday!

Silent Auction Save the Date

Holiday Party

*Winter*

Lessons Canceled!

Horse Sponsors 2011

Ivy Hill's Website

Welcome to Dina and Chris

Stocking Stuffers!

Special Olympics Training

Coin Drive

Halloween Weekend Brings Close to Ivy Hill Show Season

Opportunities for Clients, Families, Staff & Volunteers

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Youngstrand

Acting Antics for the Entire Family

Our Friend Skip

Ivy Hill Students Win Big at Thorncroft

Place Your Fall Clothing Orders Now

Children's Rights and Access to Services

BCASC Speaker Series

BCIU Free Training Seminar

Best Wishes Becca & Julia!!

Winter